The Sale Rack

Update Your Blog Roll!

2010-07-09T10:55:00.001-04:00

Follow me over at http://www.mydailyinspirationboard.blogspot.com/!

Goodbye TSR

2010-07-01T12:00:00.000-04:00

I started this blog over two years ago to help me focus on paying off my debt and building up my savings account. Over the course of those two years, with the help of this blog and your support, I paid off over $25,000 in student loans and credit card debt and am on my way to building up that savings account. Along the way, I discovered how much I enjoyed the creative process of maintaining this blog. Now that I have paid off all my debt, I have decided to shift my blogging focus to a more creative platform. As of today, I will no longer be posting on The Sale Rack.

Instead, today I am launching Daily Inspiration Board. Did you have one of those cork boards growing up that you used to tack your favorite photos, concert tickets, newspaper articles, doodles, dried flowers? I sure did! Mine took up an entire corner of my bedroom. Now that I am, well, no longer 16, I've decided to virtually re-create that corner of my childhood bedroom that gave me such inspiration. There was no rhyme or reason to what I tacked on to that wall...it was just clusters of sometimes beautiful and vibrant, occasionally funny and often times very average mementos from my everyday life. And that is what Daily Inspiration Board is going to be.

Thank you for all your support for TSR over the last two years and I hope you will join me at www.dailyinspirationboard.blogspot.com!

p.s. Trust me, I'll still have a focus on penny pinching, as that is part of my DNA!

Mrs. Exercise in Restraint

2010-03-29T10:55:00.000-04:00

I know I should not tempt you with my guilty pleasure, especially during Lent season, but I just can't help it! Have you seen the blog, Mrs. Lilien Styling House?? It is one of my favorite eye-candy blogs. She is so creative with her themes and content. I use it more for inspiration than a catalogue as Jimmy Choo is out of my budget! I must warn you before you click through, make sure you have ample time and no distractions because you'll be hooked after the first story board. And if you are on a budget like I am, hide your credit card. That really helps.

All that Glitters is Gold..or Silver?

2010-03-26T11:04:00.004-04:00

This glittery clutch is on the sale rack at JCrew right now for $29.99 (marked down from $49.99). So I'm thinking this for my wedding day clutch, but my accents that evening are silver, not gold, which is what JCrew is saying this color is. They had a silver one but it is no longer available. I think this bag has enough silver sparkle to not look too gold, no?

(I've officially hit the "over-thinking-everything" phase of the planning process with less than two months to go:))

Learning to Cook with Ina

2010-03-24T11:30:00.004-04:00

As you know, in order to save money I've been cooking at home a lot more. Last Fall, I could barely boil water, but through food blogs, cookbooks and the Food Network, I've been building some skills in the kitchen. My favorite FREE teacher these days is Barefoot Contessa's Ina Garten. Well, sort of free. I have cable and tivo, which allows me to pause and rewind in order to write down the recipe and study a technique.

Ina has taught me how to roast a chicken, crack an egg properly, de-bone a chicken, the importance of salt! and butter! Ina loooves butter. The only thing she loves more than butter is her Jeffrey. Does anyone else get a little uncomfortable while watching them canoodle?

ALso, does anyone know her theme song? I know this sounds extremely geeky, but I want to download it to my new "Cooking mix" that I listen to in the kitchen! Does anyone else do that "I'm cooking in a kitchen in Provence or Tuscany" thing in their head while cooking? :)

TSR in Austin, TX

2010-03-13T11:33:00.001-05:00

I just returned from a trip to my home state of Texas where I spent an incredible weekend in Austin, TX with some of my closest girlfriends. I could create a whole blog on that part-hip, part- honky tonk town, but today I am gonna focus on the awesome deal I found at the ultra-cool San Jose Hotel. (check out Cote de Texas blog feature on the hotel here.)

The minute we walked into the room two of my design-conscious girlfriends thought the linens were perhaps John Robshaw. Upon closer inspection we realized they were not. Lucky for us, these custom-made linens for the San Jose were on sale for only $40! ( I was expecting $100 or more.) My friend Katherine bought the yellow and blue linen above. And I bought the sage, burgundy and blue one below. I think Katie is still figuring out which one to order.

The three of us had visions of our bedrooms looking like the hotel room above- clean white sheets/pillows/blanket at foot of bed paired with punchy yet subtle patterned fabric. Unfortunately, it did NOT translate in my bedroom at home. It looked like green and blue paisley threw up in my room. (Picture here of my bedroom so that you can imagine what it looked like.)

Instead, I threw it on the back of this chair in my living room to add some depth to this area of the room. I have yet to find art to hang on the wall above the chair, so I thought this created a little bit of visual interest in the meantime. Here you can see it in the context of the room...

Below is a close-up of the pattern on pattern.

You can order from many of the patterns that the San Jose Hotel offers by calling them...I don't see anything on their web site. I can't wait to see what Katherine and Katie do with their's!

Perfect Spring Shoes for Sale-- size 7

2010-02-23T17:33:00.007-05:00

Guess what I've been doing the past couple of days?! Yep, a little spring cleaning! Today's item on The Sale Rack is this pair of black leather and linen Corso Como 3 1/2 inch heels, size 7. I bought them a couple of years ago on the sale rack at Tani's on the Upper West Side in NYC...they were orignally $145. I am selling them for $49. They haven't been worn once--only in the apartment while convincing myself I could actually wear 3 1/2 heels without falling on my face!

These shoes have a classic look...so your $49 will be well spent! These can go with a pencil skirt, the JCrew Minnie pants, and the rolled-up boyfriend jeans. Very versatile!

Please comment below if you are interested in purchasing them. And stay tuned for more Spring Cleaning items on TSR!

SOLD-----Rehab Chair for Sale- $20

2010-02-22T10:36:00.005-05:00

Five years ago when I lived in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, I found this chair on the curb. Though it looked nothing like this. The wooden frame was a deep mohogany and the fabric seat was ivory silk fabric. Yeesh! I slapped some white paint on it and recovered the seat with Waverly fabric. Don't you just love those rehab projects!?!

I'm now selling it, but before I post it on Craigslist I thought I'd give my loyal readers first dibs. For $20, this chair can be your's! If the color and fabric aren't right for you, turn it into your own rehab project!

If you are interested, comment below and I'll reach out to you! Please note: the chair now lives in NYC.

Black and cream Waverly fabric on top of fuschia and white waverly fabric, on top of horrible 1980s ivory silk fabric.

This chair has been awesome, but due to lack of space, I need to sell it.

Got it Made in the Shade

2010-02-12T11:17:00.003-05:00

How awesome is this hat?! And it is on the sale rack at Delia's for only $7.99!

I found this deal on a new blog I disovered - Chic 'n Cheap Living. Like TSR, she's all about living stylishly on a dime!!

FREE Personalized Leather Journal

2010-02-08T16:30:00.002-05:00

Following up on my obsession with designer Kathryn Ireland's book "Creating a Home," The Sale Rack and Graphic Image are offering a FREE personalized pink journal, like the designer's below, to a TSR reader who shares the most creative way they are saving money this year. The winner will be announced next week. Let the submissions begin!

Photos: Graphic Image, "Creating a Home"

Free Shipping for The Sale Rack

2010-02-08T12:05:00.000-05:00

Is your new year's resolution to stay organized off to a good start? If not, it is never too late! Graphic Image is having a huge sale right now on leather organizational items like calendars, travel bags, journals, etc. Graphic Image is also offering free shipping to TSR readers now through the end of February...just enter "TheSaleRack" at checkout.

Colorful and metallic 2010 calendars are on the sale rack for $30--marked down from $60. All datebooks are half off!

Who wouldn't want to keep an organized make-up bag with this robin's egg blue leather cosmetic case!?! Medium - $39, from $79 Large - $55, from $110.

No more frantically digging for pens, keys, subway cards, etc. at the bottom of your purse with this classic leather case! It is a great size for your pocketbook. It is on Graphic Image's sale rack right now for $24.

Restaurant-style Brunch at Home

2010-01-06T10:50:00.000-05:00

The Sale Rack is going to be focusing a lot more on food entries this year because as we all know cooking at home is a great way to save money! Not to mention it is also great for the waistline, so you could knock out two resolutions with this tactic!

One area to cut back on is the weekend brunch and with the recipe I have for you today, this will be one of the easiest resolutions for you yet! Bisquick's Impossibly Easy Ham and Swiss Pie is exactly that. Easy. And gosh darn affordable. Given the fact that it serves six, you can heat it up the next morning or save it for lunch/dinner. The entire meal with ingredients for a side salad (which I also used for two other meals) cost less than $20.

Impossibly Easy Ham and Swiss Pie (aka Quiche)
1 1/2 cups cut-up fully cooked ham ( I use Canadian Bacon)
1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese (4 ounces)
4 medium green onions sliced ( 1/4 cup)
1/2 cup Original Bisquick ( I didn't have to buy because I always have a box on hand)
1 cup of milk (I use skim milk)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
2 eggs

1. Heat oven to 400, grease pie plate ( 9 x 1 1/4 inches), sprinkle ham, cheese and onions in pie plate
2. Stir remaining ingredients until blended (yes, this means use a blender or hand mixer), pour into pie plate
3. Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Let stand 5 minutes before serving!

Here's how it turned out for me.....

Delicious!

Cushion Your Savings

2009-12-31T12:26:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine's new year's resolution is to finally decorate her apartment, but her issue--she thinks--is that she's on a budget. Honey, that's not an issue with The Sale Rack! One of the most affordable ways to spruce up your space is to add some "jewelry" like throw pillows, objects of art on your bookshelves, etc. Pier 1 has lots of colorful and interesting pillows on their sale rack right now. I just love the happy Summer Kimono pillow above--on sale for $19.38 (from $25.95).

This Pink Paisley pillow is on the sale rack for $6.48 (from $25.95). How cute would this be in a little girls room?!

This groovy Butterfly Words pillow is on sale for $7.48 (from $29.95).

And last, but certainly not least, the Suzani Fringe pillow is on sale for $29.98 (from $34.95).

Photos: Pier 1

The West Comes to NYC

2009-12-31T11:37:00.000-05:00

I've claimed on these pages that the Bastille Day celebration in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn is the best event in NYC, but I clearly forgot about the Professional Bull Rider Madison Square Garden Invitational! Before I went last year, I was rather suspect about the authenticity of this event because I grew up in a small Texas country town. Let me know tell, with 700 tons of dirt, Wrangler-clad cowboys and 2000-pound bulls bucking about, this event is the real deal!

Right now this pure country experience is only $10 through Goldstar, an online round-up of discounted tickets to events in various US cities including NYC, Boston, Chicago and San Fran. If you are not a member, I recommend signing up because there are always great deals on tickets to concerts, museums, the theatre, etc.

Professional Bull Rider Madison Square Garden Invitational
Madison Square Garden (New York, NY)
Friday, Jan. 8 @ 8:00pm
Saturday, Jan. 9 @ 8:00pm
Sunday, Jan. 10 @ 1:00pm

Full Price: $20.00 Goldstar Price: $10.00

Cowboy Up!

What is Your New Year's Resolution?

2009-12-30T16:28:00.005-05:00

My New Year's resolution is once again to SAVE MONEY! Last year, I was able to pay off three credit cards and two student loans with my savings plan. This year's focus is to build my savings. I know it is not 2010 yet, but I started this resolution TODAY by signing up for a high-interest-earning savings account. I've been meaning to do this for years, but the issue was I didn't have that much money in savings because everything was going toward debt. No more! After a quick survey of major banks and credit unions, I discovered that ING had the best deal for me-- I'm now earning 1.30% interest versus .01 % in my old bank savings account! Plus, it was so freakin' easy to set up!

What are your resolutions?

A Christmas Miracle---Garland for $7

2009-12-18T11:10:00.000-05:00

I wanted to let you know that I ended up cancelling my order of the JCPenney garland that I recognized a couple of weeks ago. After sizing up my mantel, I realized it would be too "bushy". Luckily, I found this garland for only $7 at CVS pharmacy...it didn't come pre-lit, but I ended up just wrapping a string of lights I already owned around it. The ornaments are from a Pier 1 sale last year. Since we opted out of putting up a real tree this year to save money for the wedding (trees in NYC ain't cheap!), our total Christmas decor cost was only $7!!! I 'm a little bummed to not have a tree, but the festive mantel definitely lights up our home and our holiday!

Next frugal hunt: More candles for the fireplace!

Photos: The Sale Rack

What is Your Favorite Small Space Solution?

2009-12-16T12:42:00.000-05:00

Thanks JerseyCook for your very correct response to yesterday's post where I asked you all to spot the difference between the two pictures of my living room! The difference was the addition of a pillow on the random Ikea chair, which was forced to our living room because there wasn't enough space in the kitchen where our table and other 3 chairs live. I hate the chair in the living room, but there was no other space in the apartment for it so I added a pillow I love in order to make the chair's placement look purposeful rather than mandatory.

When you have both a small space and a small budget, you are forced to work with what you've got. I actually love this challenge and have managed to come up with solutions to a few of my small space challenges. One of my favorites is using fabric to hide storage. The image above is from Domino magazine and no doubt that fabric is probably covering unsightly and random storage, like old issues of the magazine itself (R.I.P), a cable box, photos, a printer similar to mine below...

In small spaces you are forced to use every surface- from top to bottom. I love this kitchen and how the pink canvas allows the exposed kitchen supplies and utensils to act as art. Notice they are just using simple shelves, nails and hooks.

Carrie Bradshaw used her radiator as a shelf in her bedroom. In an old apartment, I used mine as a night stand and it totally worked. I went to my local hardware store and told them what I was doing and they supplied me with the wood and spray paint that would withstand the heat.

What small space solutions do you have?

Photos: Domino, The Sale Rack, Apartment Therapy

Can You Spot the Difference?

2009-12-15T14:00:00.001-05:00

Tune into tomorrow for the answer!

Outfitting a Guest Room on a Budget

2009-12-14T12:30:00.002-05:00

I've received comments and questions over the last several months about my guest bedroom...you can see a hint of it from my living room. After a year and a half of trying things out/moving things around, I finally feel great about our guest room. And not only because I think it looks great and is extremely cozy, I'm proud of the fact that the total cost of outfitting this room was around $200. It is important to note that this was not all purchased at one time. I think the key to staying in your budget is a slow approach to building your space. I've purchased the items in this room over the last five years...it takes time to find the right pieces that speak to who you are and what you value in your home.

But if time isn't on your side, especially if you are hosting guests this holiday season, here are some sources for similar items:

Bedding:

I bought the white matelasse set from a TJ Maxx in Dallas three years ago for only $39.99. TJ Maxx is a great source for a set, because usually they start out at $39 just for a sham. If you don't find a set on your first visit, go back because they usually have a healthy supply.

The Alvine Flora pillow is from Ikea for $29.99.

Furniture:

The room is TINY and only fits a queen bed and dresser, which I use as storage and nightstand.

My mom found the antique dresser for only $49 at Merchants in Corsicana, TX, my hometown. For those of you that live in Texas, Beaton Street in Corsicana is a must-do...their antique shops have terrific selections at fantastic prices. Merchants is a favorite of The Sale Rack and of the Hable Construction sisters (they are from Corsicana too!). If you aren't near this gem of a town, hit your local flea market or check out Craigslist!

The bed is the first real bed I ever owned. So it's an oldie! Instead of throwing it out/re-selling on Craigslist, it got moved to the guest room.

Accessories:

You can find a similar sheepskin rug at Ikea for only $39.99.

The glass lamp was purchased four years ago from Target for around $30. An affordable glass lamp is hard to find, but JCPenney has a similar one in stock on the sale rack for $69.99, from $160. I have an oversized aqua ornament that was a gift inside the lamp.

The matador painting is from the Davisville flea market in New Hampshire. It was only $10! ebay has similar paintings starting at $9.

I Live for Saturday Mornings

2009-12-11T11:57:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you but I LIVE for Saturday mornings. Sleeping in that extra hour or two...having an extra cup of coffee in your favorite mug....wearing your comfy PJs and slippers until noon... nesting like crazy....listening to NPR's Car Talk, etc. With the drop in temperature, it might be time to winterize (read: update) your Saturday morning lounge wear. If so, the Sale Rack has some bargains for you....

You can pick up the PJs above for 50% off now at Gap stores. I can't find anything on their web site, but the sign out front of their Fifth Ave store says the sale is for a limited time. The Rocket Dog slippers above are on the sale rack at DSW for $19.94, from $45.

My favorite Saturday morning mug is this red Emile Henry cup that I've had for over 10 years! It is the perfect size...I love it! It is $16 at Sur La Table and $18 at Emile Henry.

Have a great weekend!

DIY Mercury Glass Votives

2009-12-10T13:10:00.001-05:00

I wanted to share with you a DIY mercury glass votive project that I am testing out for my wedding that I think would be a great idea for any upcoming holiday parties you might be hosting....

I've been looking for affordable mercury glass candle holders for months and let me tell you, they aren't cheap! Anthropologie has them for $6 and Target for $7.99. When you mutliply that by 75-100...just not the number I want to spend . Luna Bazaar, a popular party supply site, has them for as low as $2.40 (they are currently sold out). Again, not at all ideal.

Before I ditch the idea of the vintage mercury look, I want to try a DIY idea with Krylon glass spray paint and metallic leaf I found on The Everyday Bride . She was very honest that her project failed; however, she said the culprits were lack of time and technique. See here for her step-by-step instructions on how to achieve the vintage look above and below.

I plan on trying this over the Christmas break with my mom, so I'll report back on my results. Though if any of you try this in the meantime, please share!

Photos: Style-files, Luna Bazaar

UPDATED: Who Gets Your Vote??

2009-12-10T12:00:00.000-05:00

Thank God its Wednesday! The "Top Chef" season finale is tonight and I'm anxious to see who is going to win. I am from the South and looove me some comfort food, so I'm rootin' for Kevin (the red head). Not only is he a fantastic cook, but he is just so darn nice. Look at him compared to those mean-looking brothers. And he would never make comments like: "____'s food is what I cook on my day off"! Michael, pack your knives and leave!

Speaking of comfort food, the oven-smoked ribs recipe in today's NY Times Minimalist column looks lip-smacking delicious, but not at all something I can tackle this evening, which is a darn shame given this dish is right up Kevin's alley! It is rainy here in NYC and the idea of searching for wood chips to smoke my ribs is not at all appealing to me. Plus it takes three hours to cook. But fear not Mr. Bittman, this Texas girl will definitely be oven-smokin' some ribs soon.

What to cook tonight...

UPDATED: It has been brought to my attention that I need to remind my followers that the reason I am writing about cooking and recipes lately is because cooking your own meals is a great way to save money. :)

Photos: Bravo, NY Times

What to do with a Small Bathroom?

2009-12-07T14:48:00.000-05:00

Embrace it! For those of us living in NYC, spaceous bathrooms with two sinks, a bathtub and a shower aren't necessarily par for the course. In fact, Bitchens are still around. What's a bitchen you ask? A bitchen is a kitchen with a shower and /or a bathtub. (Cue the bitchen jokes.) And often with a bitchen, the toilet is shoved into some solitary-confinement-type-of-space somewhere else in the apartment.

What to do with that space?? I love how the tiny throne above is completely celebrated with artwork. I'd lose the mirror on the ground though. :) Other than that, how unexpected and fun! Cheap flea market art is perfect for this type of arrangement. Bitchen or not, this is an interesting idea for a bathroom!

To see more of this apartment, check out Design Sponge.

Photo source: Design Sponge

Thursday Morning Quarterback

2009-12-03T10:55:00.006-05:00

Between the NY Times weekly Dining section and Bravo's "Top Chef", I am loving Wednesdays! Last night I took my first stab at one of Mark Bittman's Minimalist recipes in the Dining section--- Pasta with chicken and mushrooms, risotto style. To this culinary neophyte, most of the recipes in the Minimalist column don't live up to its name, however, yesterday's column was one I could definitely tackle even after a long day of work.

Recipe: Pasta With Chicken and Mushrooms, Risotto Style

2 tablespoons olive oil, more as needed
1 shallot or small onion, chopped
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 cups crimini, shiitake or button mushrooms, cleaned, trimmed and sliced
1/2 pound cut pasta like gemelli or penne, or long pasta broken into bits
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup dry white wine or water
3 to 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
2 boneless chicken thighs, diced
Chopped fresh parsley, optional
Freshly grated Parmesan, optional.

1. Put 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. When hot, add shallot, garlic and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms soften and begin to brown on edges, about 10 minutes. Add pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is glossy and coated with oil, 2 to 3 minutes. Add a little salt and pepper, then wine. Stir and let liquid bubble away.

2. Ladle stock into skillet 1/2 cup or so at a time, stirring after each addition and every minute or so. When liquid is just about evaporated, add more. Mixture should be neither soupy nor dry. Keep heat at medium and stir frequently.

3. Begin tasting pasta 10 minutes after you add it; you want it to be tender but with a tiny bit of crunch. When pasta is about 3 to 4 minutes away from being done, add chicken and stir to combine. Continue to cook until chicken is done — it will be white on inside when cut — and pasta is how you like it. Taste, adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley and Parmesan if using, and serve.
Yield: 4 servings.

Starting off...

Finished product...

I totally nailed this recipe! As Mark Bittman noted in the online video that supplemented the column, this recipe is all about the technique of making pasta risotto-style, so you can substitute other ingredients for the chicken, shallots and mushroom. While I loved the dish, I'm open to substituting the chicken thighs....Any Ideas?

Photos: The NY Times (top photo), The Sale Rack (bottom photos)

Unique Kitchen Utensil Holder

2009-12-02T16:17:00.006-05:00

How awesome are these copper pitchers found on The Kitchn blog?? I love that they are being used as holders for kitchen utensils. Ebay has similar copper pitchers starting around $2!

Photo: The Kitchn

Decorating Your Mantel on a Budget

2009-12-02T14:53:00.009-05:00

I'm always inspired by my friend Kathy's mantel at Christmas, so I thought I would do something similar this year. Kathy bought her garland for less than $40 at Kmart, plus a few dollars on the side for pine cones, bells, small ornaments and candles. In total, she spent no more than $55 three years ago for the garland and ornaments and probably $25 for the candle holders. And not a dollar since.

After an online survey of prelit garland, JCPenney has the best deal around hands-down. Their Prelit Washington Spruce Garland is on sale for $19.99, from $39.99. See below, but with clear lights.

Photo: Kathy Roeder (top), JCPenney (bottom)

Give the Gift that Gives Back

2009-12-02T11:35:00.007-05:00

TSR is a big proponent of gifts that give back. This year, I would like to highlight products by Kate Spade and Women for Women International that were featured in this month's Elle. WfWI was founded in 1993 to help women from war-torn countries rebuild their lives through education about reproductive rights, job-skills training and micro-credit loans. Kate Spade has partnered with a WfWI micro-credit and jobs program in Bosnia and Herzegovina to make mittens, hats, and scarves for the holiday season.

As a result, Kate Spade has employed 300 women--mostly survivors of the Bosnian war who were either raped by enemy combatants, or who lost husbands, fathers, brothers who were their source of financial support. The women make $7–$15 per piece, double the wages for comparable work in the region.

While the mittens will run you $95 and the scarf $125, when you read the stories about the woman Kate Spade is employing you'll see that you are paying for a lot more than a pair of gloves. You are creating an opportunity for women who need and deserve it.

To read more about the program, click here.

A WfWI knitter making mittens for the Kate Spade line.

Available in other colors.

Photos: Kate Spade and Elle

It's the Little Things

2009-11-29T19:29:00.001-05:00

I'm still soaking up inspiration from Kathryn Ireland's book, "Creating a Home". One of the things in particular that I love is her use of saturated color tiles throughout the house. As you can see, even chipped tiles are put to use as a coaster (above) or decorative art (below).

Over a year ago, I purchased the black and burgundy tiles below for $5 each at an antique shop in Santa Barbara, Ca., and have been using them as coasters ever since. I've been very suprised by how durable and practical they've been.

It's those little accent pieces in the house that punch up its character.

Personalized Leather Journal on Sale

2009-11-24T10:09:00.008-05:00

I received Kathryn Ireland's "Creating a Home" in the mail on Friday and could barely put it down this weekend! One of the many photos that caught my eye was the one above. The textiles, the colors...and her personalized journal! After a quick search on the Internet, I found a sale on personalized journals at Graphic Image. I love the 8" Robin's Egg Blue flexible leather journal below, which is $34.50 (from $69), with no cost to personalize it. Prices range depending on size and style. This is a great holiday gift idea!! (hint, hint, hint :))

By the way, "Creating a Home" is only $26.40 at Amazon.com...compare that to $28 at barnesandnoble.com and $40 at the Barnes and Noble store.

Pattern Inspiration

2009-11-23T14:40:00.001-05:00

My friend Katie's house is always such an inspiration. One of my favorite arrangements she has had over the years is the framed early 19th century wallpaper prints over the couch in her study. I could stare at the colors and patterns all day...and often do when I visit!! Over the years, I've looked for similar patterns to frame and I recently found a $5 book of patterned giftwraps at the Strand in NYC. So far I've only used one of the sheets and that was to replace a piece of art in one of the frames in my living room salon.

Paisley giftwrap sheets- $5 from The Strand.

12 full-color patterns, each tear-out sheet is 4 times the book size.

Check out the framed paisley giftwrap that I added to my living room salon. I think it blends well with the discounted throw pillow from Apt 48, the landscape painting I purchased at a flea market in New Hampshire and the green paisley plate I picked up at the Rose Bowl flea market years ago.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole

2009-11-22T18:02:00.001-05:00

I can't believe Thanksgiving is already here! Once again, it is time for me to whip up my mom's famous broccoli cheese casserole. I found the video above from last Thanksgiving that spotlights a key ingredient of the recipe and thought I would share it with you! Unfortunately, I don't have a picture of the finished product, but trust me, this dish is to die for! And frankly worth breaking any and all dietary restrictions. In keeping with TSR tradition, please share your favorite holiday recipes!

Broccoli Cheese Casserole Ingredients:

- 1 large jar of Cheese Whiz or for the food snobs use Velveta ;)

- 2 boxes of frozen chopped broccolli

- one onion

- can of fried onions

- box of instant white rice

- 2 cans of cream of mushroom

- 1 can water chestnuts--the secret ingredient!

Directions:

1. Slice onion and saute in a large skillet with olive oil

2. Add thawed chopped broccoli, stir 2-3 min

3. Add your 2 cans of cream of mushroom, stir 1-2 min

4. Add the magic ingredient, one can of water chestnuts

5. Once that is all blended, add jar of cheese whiz--THE BEST PART

6. Add the cooked rice

7. To top it off, sprinkle the fried onions for a beautiful presentation

Enjoy!

Special Online Price

2009-11-19T15:36:00.006-05:00

The other day I was killing time at Barnes and Noble and came across "Creating a Home," a book about designer Kathryn Ireland's (former) home in Ojai, California. This is my dream house--the colors, the textiles, the ranch-style house, the natural light, etc!

While many a shelter magazine and blog, including The Sale Rack, have shown photos of the home, "Creating a Home" has page after page after page of decor eye candy. No nook goes uncaptured! The only issue for me was the price tag. $40. I couldn't justify spending $40 on a book that I already have tear sheets of from the House Beautiful article years ago. However, I could justify a lower price given that it is my dream house and the book would be looked at quite frequently. With that in mind, I went lookin' online.

Lucky for me and YOU, Barnes and Noble is having an online special right now!!! You can get select books for the cost of the Barnes and Noble Member price. "Creating a Home" is available for $28 right, compared to $40 for the in-store price, and no shipping cost!!!!! Merry Christmas to myself!

Photos: Barnes and Noble and House Beautiful

Calling all North Texans!

2009-11-13T16:30:00.006-05:00

I just discovered over at Tamstyles that Dallas is going to have a new flea market starting December 5th!!!!!!!!!!!! Mom, Rene and Katherine, since I am in NYC, I expect a full report!

Thanks Tamstyles!

Southern Living

2009-11-10T11:21:00.003-05:00

I was so inspired by Beautiful Living's post on homemade biscuits that I made my very own first batch this past weekend. I didn't have the ingredients her recipe called for and I didn't feel like leaving the apartment to go to buy them at the grocery store. Luckily, I found a box of Bisquick in the back of my pantry. Mom always said to have a box on hand!

The whole time I was making and eating them, I felt like I was transported back to my Southern roots---- without spending a dime on a plane ticket!

Bisquick's Dropped Biscuits:

Stir 1 cup milk or 7/8 cup water into 2 cups Bisquick. Mix well by beating dough for 30 seconds. Drop by spoonfuls on lightly greased baking sheet or into muffin pans.

You can see Beautiful Living's receipe here.

Photo: Beautiful Living

The Cotton Belt

2009-11-09T14:59:00.004-05:00

I'm noticing raw cotton arrangements used as decor these days- saw it last week at Anthropologie and this past weekend at Bear Mountain restaurant in Brooklyn. The concept reminds me so much of my grandfather who was a cotton farmer in Texas. I'm thinking they might be an interesting supplement to my wedding decor as the wedding is taking place in the heart of the Cotton Belt and it falls under the "Rustic Elegance" theme we have. Integrating these into the decor might also save a buck or two with the floral budget. Hmmmm....

Photo: Stephanie Williams Photography

Gorgeous Wedding!

2009-11-06T15:22:00.000-05:00

My future brother-in-law and his now wife (will she be my sister-in-law?) just had the most beee-yooo-tiful wedding on a vineyard in Malibu, CA. While the dramatic cliffs and incredible views were breathtaking, the do-it-yourself elements of the wedding are what I couldn't stop talking about that evening!

Milk glass vases: Instead of renting, our bride opted to hit up the Rose Bowl flea market to purchase her own. She made several trips and left no milk glass vase behind. (If anyone is interested, she is selling them.)

Table runners: Our awesome mother-in-law made the linen table runners with a very delicate floral embroidery on the edges. Such a sweet and special touch.

Table numbers: The bride's very crafty sister made the wine bottle table numbers--very appropriate for a California vineyard wedding. The bottle is wrapped in linen and leftover ribbon from the napkins.

Signage: The bride's sister created another personal touch with handmade welcome and menu signs. She even created the frames!

Check out more scenes from the wedding at Green Wedding Shoes blog. Congrats again Jason and Rebecca!!!

Photos: The Sale Rack, Sweet Monday Photography

Stretching That Dollar Across Seasons

2009-11-05T12:47:00.006-05:00

You know that summer dress you love that you paid a pretty penny for, but you only wear three months out of the year? Well, La Bonne Femme shows you how to wear that frock across seasons. I'm especially a fan of the Fall ensemble below. Read more at La Bonne Femme.

I'm so inspired by this post that I am going to hit my closet this weekend to create some new outfits! I'm very tempted to buy some of the new clothes this season, but nope! Need to save save save.

Thanks La Bonne Femme for the inspiration!

Photos: La Bonne Femme

Sea Change

2009-11-02T10:55:00.006-05:00

Most rentals don't allow you to paint walls, but here is an idea that can give your apt the same effect--painting your bookshelves one big bold color like the turquoise above. I love the two shelves framing this doorway.

Photo: Apartment Therapy

Paid Off My Student Loans!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-09-17T09:55:00.002-04:00

After 11 years of stressing over student loans, I am finally finished!!! I just sent in my last payment!!!!!!!

Which Cover Do You Prefer?

2009-08-03T15:12:00.007-04:00

Perhaps I am old fashioned, but I hate when publishers slap the movie poster on books to capitalize on the book-to-movie launch. I won't even buy the book if that is the only cover available at the book store. I mean I get it for the publishers and movie studios, more money, better promotion, blah,blah. But aesthetically, I just can't bring myself to carry around what is essentially a billboard promoting the movie. Even though I want to see the movie. Like I said, I know it is weird.

If you are rushing to read the book WITH THE ORIGINAL COVER before you see the movie, there are still original paperback versions available for less than $12 online.

Abe Books, $5. 29

Ebay, starting at $7.82

Strand Books, $11.95

Barnes and Noble, $11.99

The Audrey Pant for Under $100

2009-07-31T15:51:00.005-04:00

JCrew has an incredible pair of black cigarette pants for under $100. They are totally appropriate for work (wearing them now with heels, a blouse and, of course, a Jackie cardigan), great for weekend errands (like the look below) and fun for a night out (heels, sleeveless or with jacket in the Fall, fun jewelry). So the $79 price tag might seem steep at first, but knowing you can wear them for any and every occasion makes them a steal!

Ottoman Empire

2009-07-15T10:30:00.001-04:00

Apt 48 is taking 50 percent off the price all its furnishings...I just picked up the beautful ottoman above for an incredible price. As you have probably picked up by now, Raymon Boozer's boutique shop in NYC's Flatiron district is a favorite of TSR's because there is always a sale going on! Read TSR's first review of Apt 48 here.

Photos: The Sale Rack

Outfitting on a Dime

2009-07-13T21:28:00.002-04:00

Urban Outfiiters seems to have graduated from its bean bag days and taken a more sophisticated, worldy turn with its home decor goods. The windows at the college student mecca on 14th Street and 6th inspired me on a recent Friday afternoon (after a rough day at work!). I dig the jute striped pillow ($32) and kilim rugs (starting at $128) above and vases ($24) below.

Vive la France!

2009-07-10T09:35:00.013-04:00

This Sunday is the annual Bastille Day celebration in Cobble Hill. Also known as the best event in NYC! Smith Street turns into one big petanque court (see pic above)...Bar Tabac unfolds into the street...live music and dancing....and every restuarant along the strip has tents set up selling food for around $5. All the fun starts around noon and lasts until 8pm. Take the F train to Bergen Street or the 4-5 to Borough Hall in Brooklyn. More info here.

Have a great weekend!

Photos:

wallyg on flickr

mcbrooklyn

How the Other Half Lives

2009-07-09T12:39:00.003-04:00

The NY Post today reveals the details on Ruth Madoff's possible new home, which to this New Yorker looks downright palatial. While this is surely a downgrade from the $7 million penthouse she and the Bernie were living in, I don't think this 481 sq ft apt-- plus the $2m deal she received from the feds--is such a bad place to fall. It sure beats the 8 x 7 jail cell her husband is in.

Photos: via NY Post

Vintage Porn

2009-07-08T13:29:00.005-04:00

I just came across this photo of a very successful vintage hunt on the blog, Absolutely Beautiful Things. That chair! That lamp! That basket!

Photo: Absolutely Beautiful Things

Creative, Budget-friendly Centerpieces

2009-07-08T10:12:00.000-04:00

I'm not sure if I have formally announced this to TSR or not, but I am engaged and planning a wedding for next Spring in Texas! (My fiance is a little shy when it comes to this medium, so I am going to leave his cute self out when I talk about our wedding planning on TSR.)

Since our engagement I have been spending A LOT of my time reading bridal mags and wedding planning blogs. I had no idea so much went into a wedding until we started looking at venues and I started reading the magazines. I mean despite my side passion for decor, I had never heard of chavari chairs and had never thought about floral arrangements or votive candles to the degree I am thinking about them now. Now don't think I am complaining... I am loving every minute of it! I especially love how creative you can get with all of it...especially if you are on a tight budget. The magazines and blogs are packed with do-it-yourself and budget-friendly ideas. For example, Bridal Event Planning has a post on how to save on your flower budget by using non-floral centerpieces. One of my favorite ideas from the post was the use of a stack of books as a centerpiece for a rehearsal dinner (perfect for a pair of bibliophiles!), a book launch party or book club dinners.

Photos: via Brilliant Event Planning

Extra Cargo

2009-07-07T14:38:00.002-04:00

Sorry..one more JCrew post... they have cargo pants similar to the kind Jen Aniston always sports on the sale rack for $49 (from $69), plus an extra 20 percent off at check out when you add the EXTRA20 code.

Make a Statement

2009-07-07T13:38:00.004-04:00

So I tried the second necklace below from JCrew with my dress last night and it didn't work. There is rouching on the side of the dress and with the necklace, it was a bit much. So I am now going the chandelier earring route. Even so, I thought I would share with you two statement necklaces from Banana Republic that are under a $100 that I found on my two-week-long quest. The top necklace is $59 and the bottom is on the sale rack for $69 (from $79).

*By the way, JCrew has an extra 20 percent off online and in store final sale items. So if you are interested in the necklaces below, you'll get an even bigger bargain if you buy them today. Just enter "EXTRA20" at check out.

A Necklace to go with that LBD

2009-07-06T15:22:00.002-04:00

I've been looking for a chunky necklace to go with my LBD (below) and have swung by Loehmann's, TJ Maxx, Daffy's, Filene's Basement and DSW. Nothing. But amazingly JCrew has great deals on their chunky necklaces right now....the Canopy necklace above is $39.99 (marked down from $98) and the Fireworks necklace below (looks better in person) is on the sale rack for $69.99 (from $110). The Fireworks necklace also has CUTE matching earrings on sale for $29. I can't find the earrings online.

Which do you like better? I feel like you get the most bang for your buck with the second one since it would work well for work too... JCrew had it on a mannequin wearing a white button down and gold/tan knee-length skirt.

Don't Forget to Ask!

2009-07-01T13:58:00.000-04:00

Looking for an LBD to wear to all those weddings this summer?? Well, me too! White House Black Market has several for you to choose from, including the two featured here which I purchased last week. Here's where TSR comes in....I couldn't decide which dress to buy and the sales lady was pushing me to buy both--plus those cute heels below! Because there was no way I was buying all three at full price, I asked what deal they could offer me. Much to my surprise, they offered 15% off everything as long as I signed up to be in their system--not signing up for a credit card like most chains, but just adding my name to their database to receive notices about deals. The lesson: Always ask about any unknown discounts!

Love these shoes! The flower is off to the side of the top of the shoe, so it doesn't overwhelm the foot.

Save on Your Flower Budget

2009-06-26T15:02:00.003-04:00

Do you love peonies, but your budget doesn't?? A nice substitute for the high-priced flora is a monochromatic grouping of carnations. Carnations you ask?? Yes! As a group, and especially in a rich color like fuschia, carnations look just as lush and textured as peonies. This is a perfect budget saving tip for your summer parties and weddings! Can you guess which of these is the peony arrangement and which is the carnation arrangement?

Photos: Cote de Texas (top) and Instyle Weddings (top)

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

2009-06-24T17:16:00.005-04:00

It has been grey and rainy in NYC for what seems like months now! In fact it has rained 19 out of 24 days this month. I'm not inspired at all to blog, to exercise, to wear my cute summer skirts (as my legs are the color of this page), or to do my favorite NYC summer activity--walking the city streets after work and on the weekends.

The good news is that I am not spending money, because all I want to do is go home, put on jammies, cook dinner, and watch bad reality television (admit it, you too watched the season finale of Those Eight Without Jon + Kate, or whatever it is called!). I'm not alone it seems. Retailers are seeing that the rain and cooler-than-usual weather so far has dampened demand for summer items such as sandals and swimwear. Looks like tomorrow we may get a break, but then the freakin' rain comes back on Friday--ah just in time for the weekend. Top Chef reruns it is!

Michelle O Shops the Sale Rack?

2009-06-16T11:40:00.000-04:00

How cool is it that our First Lady is wearing a tee and sweater combo from the Gap?!?! Both are on sale online, but unfortuantely, the pink combo is no longer in stock--man, this woman can move product!

The sweater, only available in blue and nuetral, is marked down to $24.99-$34.99 from $44.50. The striped tee is available in blue, green and purple and is marked down to $9.99. Banana Republic has similar-looking pencil skirts starting at $59.99.

You might also like:
How to Dress Like Michelle O on a Budget, June 9, 2008

Travel without Traveling: A Review by Katie Frye

2009-06-15T16:23:00.007-04:00

Over a year ago, I purchased A Year in Provence off the $5 rack at Housing Works bookshop in SOHO. [read post here] After I finished reading the book I knew it would be perfect post for The Sale Rack as I felt like I truly experienced a year in the life of the author without stepping foot in the south of France. I couldn't quite capture the essence of the book like my literary friend, Katie Frye, so I asked her to do the honors for The Sale Rack. Read below for what I hope is the first of many book reviews by Frye for TSR.

**********************************************************

With the economy is doing its downward dog, you may be foregoing your summer vacation plans. Well, fret not, dear reader, because armchair travel does have its pleasures. Indeed, if travel writing has a canon, then Peter Mayles’ A Year in Provence is practically the entire Shakespearean oeuvre, so influential has it been on this genre. The premise is by now formulaic—jaded businessperson chucks it all, moving to the land of his/her fantasies with beloved and dogs in tow—but nevertheless, Mayles manages to keep this formula fresh and entertaining. His tale has all the customary ingredients of satisfying armchair travel—gastronomic delights, road trips with meaningful detours, humorous anecdotes about local color—seasoned with a few particularly comedic tangents, including his negotiations with local artisans to renovate his Provençal mas (don’t miss the part about his custom outdoor dining table) and his encounters with the underground truffle industry. But twenty years later, what remains so transporting about Mayles’ prose is that, like the best French cuisine (think fresh baguette and thick slabs of salted butter), it is simple, hearty fare, offering a meal all the more splendid in its absence of fanfare. Before the silly staycation industry, there was just this: you in sweatpants; a good book set far, far away; and a glass of wine—in this case, a Burgundy. Non-voyage! - Katie Frye

Jackie O's Greek Style by the Gap

2009-06-02T14:46:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, I was so inspired by a woman on the subway wearing Jackie O's Greek uniform--black tee, white pants, that I swung by the Gap after work to see if they had any deals on white pants or jeans. I found these awesome white skinny ankle jeans for $59.50.

White trouser pants, like the pair worn by Jackie O above, on sale for $29.50 (from $59.50)

New Living Room Decor!

2009-05-27T12:01:00.000-04:00

As I mentioned yesterday, over the last couple months I have been in the process of redecorating my living room (see before shot below). I felt like the room was a little too "patch-worky" and the sage and cream color palette was too airy. My two decor buddies, Katie and Katherine, suggested I weave in persimmon/red to the palette. And within a few days of receiving their advice I came across the March issue of Elle Decor and was truly inspired! Over the last couple of months, I have been slowly pulling it all together. First, I pulled my rug that I bought a few years ago off of Ebay (a steal) from storage. Second, I purchased a beautiful textile (which was another steal) from Costa Rica and framed it (which was not at all inexpensive). By the way, thank you for your advice...I went with the worn-wooden frame sans matte, which was validated by a former top editor at Domino magazine that happened to be standing at the counter at the frame store! Third, I purchased three pillows from Apt 48, which were 20% off!

The Inspiration----March 2009 cover of Elle Decor

A close-up of the wooden frame

Living room--Before.

From Apt 48 to Mine

2009-05-26T11:45:00.001-04:00

To liven up my living room, I've been in the process of switching from a sage/creme palette to a persimmon/sage/blue palette. To make the transition, I pulled from storage a burgundy, navy and persimmon colored rug that I bought off of Ebay (for a steal) a few years ago and I've been looking for throw pillows to replace the cream/sage/aqua pillows that were on the couch. After a month-long search , I finally found the perfect pillows at Apt 48 in NYC, a favorite of TSR. Within hours these gems, which were 20% off, had gone from their perch at Apt 48 in Manhattan (above) to a nice new home at Apt 42 in Brooklyn (below)!

Photos: The Sale Rack

The $400 Difference

2009-05-22T07:00:00.001-04:00

Looking for a colorful comfortable chair? Well, you could spend $1,298.oo at Anthropologie (below) OR you could spend $899 on a very similar-looking chair at Jennifer Convertibles (above). That's a $400 difference!

For more eye-popping color inspiration, check out the DUMBO apartment in the lastest Elle Decor UK and this post at My Notting Hill.

Photo: The Sale Rack (top); Anthropologie (bottom)

Signs of Summer

2009-05-21T11:42:00.005-04:00

One of my favorite things about summer is the fruit- specifically cherries and strawberries. Two weeks ago, my market had a pound of cherries at $7....thank goodness last week they came to their senses and marked the price down to $4.95.

What is your favorite thing about summer?

Photos: Strawberries from sfgirlbybay; Cherries from Sweetblue via Fancypants-design.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-08T08:19:00.003-04:00

Airline tickets to San Francisco: $300 each

Car rental : $200

Breakfast at Katy's Place in Carmel: $20

Memories of a roadtrip down Highway 1 in California with my mom: PRICELESS.

Happy Mother's Day!

Summer Retail Therapy for a Cause

2009-05-07T10:47:00.001-04:00

Man, I am antsy for summer to arrive! The smell of cut grass, bbq's in the backyard, trips to the beach....it can't get here soon enough! I find myself doing a little summer retail therapy to try to channel those dog days and what better way to shop than to shop for a cause! I recommend you log on to Macys.com and check out their "Rwanda Path to Peace" collection, made possible by Fair Winds Trading, a company that links artisans in impoverished countries to the global marketplace. These vibrant red products featured on this page, which look like they were made with summertime in mind, were hand-made by women in Rwanda--mostly genocide victims. The sale of these goods puts real, sustainable income into the lives of the artisans who create them, changing their lives in remarkable ways. To learn more about the women in Rwanda, click here.

Cotton Washable Fruit basket above, $40...also perfect for burger buns or chips for your outdoor bbq!

Village table throw, on sale for $19 (from $35). Can't you just see this on your outdoor table?!

You can take this $29 tote to the beach or super market!

Happy Earth Day!

2009-04-22T10:27:00.003-04:00

In honor of Earth Day, I'd like to spotlight what I believe to be the greatest, greenest, and budget friendliest invention of all time. The Brooks Brothers non-iron button down shirt. Why? Wash and Wear. No dry cleaning. I mean it. Just last night I picked up my laundry from the neighborhood washeteria/cleaners and when I pulled my shirt from the bag, I hung it on a hanger and - BAM- it looked as if it had been starched and ironed.

Why it is GREEN: While eco-friendly dry cleaners are on the rise, many (80% in NYC) still use the hazardous air contaminant perchloroethylene to clean clothes. Released into the air, it also contributes to smog. This shirt requires NO dry cleaning!

Why it is BUDGET FRIENDLY: This should be obvious at this point, but I'll explain. While the shirt from Brooks Brothers will set you back $89 at purchase (or $149 if you buy two), in the end you save on dry cleaning costs. Especially for men who wear a button down shirt everyday to work, this is an incredible way to cut back on your laundry budget.

Photo: Brooks Brothers.

Containing My Lunch Expenses

2009-04-15T14:06:00.004-04:00

My cooking- dinner- at- home plan is going very well...I just need to do a better job of bringing the leftovers to work the next day for lunch. Maybe these cute glass storage containers from Fishes Eddy will motivate me?! Each container is on sale online or at their Union Square location for $2.96 (from $3.95). You can also buy four for $11. 85 (on sale from $15).

Help: How Should I Frame my Textile?

2009-04-11T14:31:00.001-04:00

Inspired by the framed antique ikat on the cover of the March issue of Elle Decor, I purchased the texile below on my trip to Costa Rica two weeks ago to hang above my living room couch. I need your advice on how to matte (colors, width) and frame (color and size of frame) it! Knowing that the framing is going to cost a pretty penny, I want to make sure I get this right!

I purchased the textile from a shop in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. For the photo, I laid the textile on the back of my lounge chair at the beach, so not quite to scale. The edges of the piece (not shown) are a dark evergreen, so I would like a matte to cover that part of the textile. I find it to be too green and too depressing.

Because the couch is so dark, I think the matte(s) and frame needs to be on the lighter side. Or maybe it doesn't go over the couch?

Help!

Flipping Out Over These Prices

2009-03-25T15:23:00.000-04:00

I'm leaving for vacation in two days and am obsessed with all things beach right now, including Old Navy's flip flops. You can buy one pair for $3.50 or two or more for $2.50 each! You would think at that price that they would fall apart after a few months of wear, but the pair I bought a year ago are still going strong.

The Case for Not Buying Shelves

2009-03-23T09:34:00.000-04:00

There is no need to spend money on shelves or a case when you can just stack your books under a console table for the same effect!

Tighten 'Em Up for $15

2009-03-19T09:56:00.003-04:00

Journelle lingerie shop in Union Square has quite a deal right now! You can salvage your stretched-out bras by bringing them in to their seamstress for a $15 tightening....OR...bring 'em in for Journelle to give to charity and you'll get 20% off a replacement bra. Visit their web site for more info.

The Suggested Admission Price

2009-03-16T13:07:00.002-04:00

I wish I had known 48 hours ago what I know now. On Saturday, I decided against checking out the exhibits at the Metropolitan Museum of Art based on the $20 suggested price. Instead I opted to visit the gift shop and look through their numerous coffee table books. Today's NY Post says you don't really need to fork over $20...that even a $1 donation is fine. For some reason, I thought an alarm would have gone off if I didn't pay the $20. Oh well. Now we all know. Suggested, really means suggested.

Speaking of the Met's gift shop, one of my favorite finds was "Living in Argentina" , a hard cover coffee table book that tranports readers to the South American country's most beautiful interiors. The book ran for $29.95, but the cheap little voice inside my head was telling me I would find a better price. While only a $5 savings, Abe Books, based in the UK ,has it for $23.28 with shipping. (Compare to Amazon's $25.76 with shipping.) Or you can look through the entire book on Tashen's web site for free!

I'm Just Saying...

2009-03-12T16:26:00.004-04:00

Following up on yesterday's post about the connection between the change in weather and the change in the markets.....

Again, I am no expert, but the markets just closed with another bounce and current weather conditions in NYC are at 41°F and very sunny.

Please Go on Sale and Then Some

2009-03-12T10:56:00.004-04:00

We've been so spoiled by the winter sales, that I had sticker shock when I saw the price of this yummy mint pencil skirt from JCrew- $158. I'm not alone. Check out some of the many comments to today's NY Times story, "For Spring Clothes, A Lost Season?"...

"I was in upscale stores yesterday and I wondered what planet the people who run it are on. There is no way they are going to sell their inventory at any where near their current prices. I couldn't help but think, dream on - you'll soon be out of business." Maria, from Garden City, NJ

"In an economy and society where purchasing the latest shirt or accessory is not a priority, there's definitely an advantage in waiting for a sale." John, Canada

"I won't buy until the prices come down. Paying full price now is crazy." CC, New York

The Markets are Heating Up

2009-03-11T17:29:00.000-04:00

The northeast seems to be thawing after a brutal winter. Temperatures over the last five days have hovered in the high 50s, which is downright balmy compared to the subartic climate we've endured over the last several months. I was chatting with some girlfriends Saturday night about the possibility of an economic lift with the turn in the weather. And wouldn't you know it, the next morning, the NY Times had a column, Sunshine is a Harbinger of Optisim, about the flurry of retail activity in NYC over the near-60-degree-weather weekend. I am no economic expert, but maybe there is something to this because the market is up the last two days.

Are you filling more optimistic?

Cooking with Clara

2009-03-10T21:25:00.001-04:00

I am loving these Great Depression Cooking lessons from spunky 93-year-old Clara. I haven't really picked up her recipes--which mostly consist of onions and potatoes- but her stories of her experiences through the Depression are so incredible and give such great perspective to those of us complaining about all the frivilous things we're cutting out of our budgets these days.

Your Phone Call or Email Could Make a Difference in Darfur

2009-03-06T15:07:00.004-05:00

Today is the last intallment of The Sale Rack's week-long focus on meaningful and budget-friendly ways to give to charities in need. I hope we have showed that even $30 can go a long way for so many organizations at a time when their services are in greater demand.

Today's focus is on Darfur. Yesterday, the president of Sudan threatened to shut down 13 aid agencies working in the country in response to the International Criminal Court's idictment against him on war crimes charges stemming from the conflict in Darfur. These agencies, including Save the Children, Oxfam and Doctors Without Borders, represent about 40 percent of the 6,500 international and local aid workers in Darfur.

According to a UN official in today's NY Times, "the ouster of the groups would leave 1.1 million people without food, 1.1 million lacking health care, and more than 1 million without drinking water, adding that it would be extremely difficult for the remaining agencies and the Sudanese government to fill the void."

I spoke with a few of the affected organizations today and they say that what is needed now from YOU is an email, phone call or letter to to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and President Obama as well as to UN entities including UNICEF. "National governments and U.N. agencies are likely to have the most clout in persuading Sudan to allow aid workers to continue their efforts."

Please write to President Obama and Secretary Clinton now asking them to pursuade Sudan to allow aid workers to continue their efforts in Darfur.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

U.S. Department of State

2201 C Street NW Washington, DC 20520
202-647-4000

President Barack Obama

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500

(202) 456-1414

Submit comment online: http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/

Write a New Story for Education

2009-03-04T08:01:00.005-05:00

Continuing our Giving Back series this week....

As California and other states around the country face major spending cuts for schools, support is needed now more than ever for education-based advocacy organizations. Today's spotlight is on The Young Storytellers Foundation, based in Los Angeles, CA.

Through the art of storytelling, the Young Storytellers Foundation works to develop literacy, self-expression and self-esteem in elementary school students in the Los Angeles public school system, where the concentration of poverty is high and the academic performances tend to be low.

Here's how it works: During an eight-week session of one-on-one mentoring, fourth and fifth grade students write their own short screenplay. Then, YSF invites professional actors, including the likes of the cast of "24", the Jonas Brothers, Ted Dansen and Mary Steenburgen, among others, to perform the students' scripts in the school auditorium in front of family, friends, and faculty. To see the powerful impact of their programming, check out the clip above.

YSF is in need of monetary contributions. Whether its $20 or $1,000, your money will no doubt be appreciated. Donate here.

$50 Can Help Build a School in Mali

2009-03-03T07:45:00.001-05:00

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

This week The Sale Rack is focusing on ways to give back in meaningful and budget-friendly ways. Today's spotlight is on buildOn, a non-profit that partners after-school programs in the U.S. with communities in developing countries. According to their Web site, since 1992, U.S. student volunteers have helped build more than 295 schools in rural regions of developing nations including Haiti, Malawi, Mali, Nepal, Nicaragua and Senegal. More than 132,000 children and adults have attended those schools, with 30,000 currently enrolled. Watch the Today Show coverage above to learn more.

Last week, I spoke with their Bronx office and learned they've scaled back their after-school programs from 32 schools in New York City to 30 because of the economy. Like most organizations right now, buildOn is looking for monetary contributions, but donated supplies like markers, color copy paper, poster boards and notebooks will help their after-school program budgets. You can order their needed supplies from Target and/or Staples and have it delivered to their headquarters in Connecticut. Read here for more ways to give to buildOn.

Colored Copy Paper: $8.24 for 400 pack from Staples

Markers: $2.59 for 12 from Target

Pens: $.99 for a 20 pack from Target.

Poster board: $15.99 for 25 pack from Staples

Legal pads: $5.99 for 12 pack from Staples

Football: $19.99 for one from Target

$30 Can Save Thousands of Lives

2009-03-02T11:06:00.000-05:00

In this tough economic climate, almost everyone is scaling back on expenses, including charity donations. The non-profits I have spoken with have all been impacted. Some are laying off staff, some are cutting back on programs (including volunteer opportunities) and some are at risk of folding all together. So how do you continue to give in a meaningful way without breaking your own budget? This week I'm going to introduce you to a few different opportunities and I invite you to share ideas you might have as well.

For only $30 (less than the cost of an average night out), you can give refugees that have fled the genocide in Sudan a simple tool that will feed their families, protect women and children and provide news skills to generate income. The tool is a solar cooker, which is foil-covered cardboard that uses the energy from sunlight to cook food. The Solar Cooker Project says the cookers have made a huge difference- and not just because they heat up food. Before solar cookers, female refugees who would leave the camps to gather firewood were often attacked or raped. The cookers keep women and children in the camps, which helps keep them alive. Watch the video above to see how only $30 can make a huge impact.

Donate here.

TSR is Back!

2009-02-26T12:52:00.001-05:00

Hey all, sorry I've been MIA. I needed a Sale Rack diet. I kept wanting to buy all the cute deals I was showcasing! It was a constant battle between willpower and the ol' excuse- "but it is on sale!!" But I have to say, over the last month, I've missed you, so I'm coming back! Things are gonna be a little different though because this recession is real and it is time to cut back on expenses. I would like The Sale Rack to serve as more of a support group during these tough economic times. We're gonna tackle- TOGETHER- our big and small financial issues like how to preserve fruit and herbs, how to actually commit to bringing your lunch to work everyday (or at least three times a week), how to not spend beyond your means, how to have a wedding on a budget, how to cut back on social expenses without alienating your friends, etc.

Here we go....

File this under "Ridiculous". During my lunch break yesterday, I swung by ABC Carpet and Home for a dose of creative inspiration. I spotted the Ikat pillows above on Decorno a few weeks ago and have been meaning to check them out. As as I was soaking in the awesome colors and dynamic designs of the pillows, I overheard the sales lady telling a customer that the price of one of the pillows was $800. Now, I know I am sure to upset the design-istas who follow this blog, but yeeesh! Eight Hundred Dollars for a little pillow?!?! I don't care who designed them! After a quick Google search, I discovered a very affordable source of Ikat pillows on Katy Elliot's blog. The pillows from Uzbek Crafts will cost you $29....that's a $771 savings that can take to the bank!

Photo: Decorno blog

SLASHING PRICES! Couch $200, Table $85

2009-02-22T13:37:00.001-05:00

My boyfriend is moving in to my apartment in two weeks and now starts the merge of boy decorating style and girl decorating style. I will be inheriting a black and white photo of Larry Bird (design challenge), a brown sectional sofa (while a design challenge, I will go on record to say it is actually very comfortable), and his CB2 Saarinen-like table and chairs (love them). To make room for the things he loves, I am selling some of the things I have carried over the years.

First up, the beige Crate and Barrel couch above. This was my first big-girl apartment purchase three years ago. It is in great condition and very comfortable (I am blogging on it now:). I am asking $200. 7 ft. W x 44 D x 3ft H

Next up, table and chairs: I bought the set brand new three years ago for around $500. I reupholstered the seats, which were originally white micro suede. One of the chairs has a stain on the fabric, but I can reupholster the chairs in a different fabric for you or knock more off the price. It has a leaf to extend table size. 42" I am asking $85, includes table and four upholstered chairs.

This you have seen before. I bought this white Ikea table for around $34 this year to use as a desk. Very sturdy and doesn't mark. I am asking $15.

And finally, the two chairs I found last summer. The green one I bought from Yesterday's News in Carroll Gardens and the yellow one is an Ikea chair I painted myself. Both comfortable and cute! Will sell for $15 for the pair.

If you are interested, please comment below. And please forward along to friends!

Gone Fishin'

2009-01-05T21:19:00.002-05:00

So my 2009 commitment to eat in/bring in lunch to work is not exactly saving me money so far, because all I am wanting to do is buy kitchenware and accessories for the food I am (plan on) cooking. And the back-of-the-store clearance room at Fishs Eddy (located way too close to my office in Union Square) isn't helping either!

Through January 11th 25% off select dinnerware.

$4 for a set of 4 margarita glasses ...you'll also find wine glasses starting at 99 cents!

Up to 75% off of coffee mugs.

DIY Wine Rack

2009-01-04T14:25:00.002-05:00

Over Christmas I got to see the major overhaul my mom did on her kitchen--new cabinets, appliances, etc. One of my favorite features of the new kitchen is the DIY wine rack she created in a slender cabinet space that would otherwise be used for spices and other nic nacs. She created the wine rack out of 2 white PVC pipes she purchased at Home Depot for about $20. She had them cut down into 10 12inch cylinders and stacked them to store up to 20 bottles of wine. Because the pipes were already white like the cabinets, there was no paint job needed!

This is also a great idea for tiny NYC kitchens!

Photos: Brenda Ross for The Sale Rack

From Gisele to Gidget

2009-01-02T10:52:00.000-05:00

How many of you have jeans in your closet that need to be altered but you are either too lazy or too broke to fix them? I have three pairs that need attention but for several months last year I was too lazy to take them to get hemmed and now, post Christmas, I'm too broke. Thank goodness for Taylor Denim!

The other morning it took me less than five minutes to transform my made-for-Gisele black jeans into the perfect Gidget-size length for me. Only $11.95 for a pack of 24 strips and no shipping costs.

What is your New Year's Resolution?

2009-01-01T16:03:00.006-05:00

Once again, my new year's resolution is to SPEND LESS MONEY and build up my savings account. And once again, I am going to use The Sale Rack to keep me on track. Last year, I introduced the Brown Bag Savings Plan to cut back on lunch and dinner expenses. I must admit that the plan was a total bust. I can count on my hands how many times I cooked at home and brought in lunch to work. Well, things are gonna be different in 2009! To help me stick to my resolution, I plan on putting to good use the two cookbooks I received this Christmas----- "Real Simple: Meals Made Easy", (Real Simple Books) and "Easy Entertaining", (Ryland Peters & Small).

What are your new year's resolutions?

Photo: The Sale Rack

Bubbly on a Budget

2008-12-31T09:33:00.004-05:00

2008. It was the best of times and the worst of times. America elected its first black president, a governor and a former presidential contender admitted to extramarital affairs, Sarah Palin winked her way across America, Wall Street imploded, and The Sale Rack was born! It is time to say goodbye to this crazy year and ring in 2009. For those of you looking to celebrate on a budget, the NY Post has a round-up of affordable bubbly. Here are the ones they recommend:

Freixenet, Cordon Negro Brut; $9.49, surprisingly complex; redolent of ripe cheese
Martini & Rossi, Prosecco; $9.99, nicely balanced, with peach and melon aromas and flavors
Boyer, Brut Blanc de Blancs, NV; $10.95, clean-tasting with hints of green apple; creamy texture
Louis Bouillot Cremant de Bourgogne Rose, Perle d'Aurore; $13.95, delicate pink color; grapefruit notes and a slightly bitter finish

Photo: Zandy Mangold, NY Post

Counting Your Pennies

2008-12-30T12:36:00.007-05:00

You are looking at the most popular gift from my mom to every member of my family this Christmas. The electronic money jug from Zillionz. The jug, available in clear, blue or pink, is equipped to distinguish the value of each coin and conveniently keeps a running total of your savings. Check out this video to see how quickly your loose change adds up! Order one for $17.40 from QVC and get $3 off each additional purchase. (Compare to $19.99 from Target.)

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-16T08:01:00.002-05:00

This time of year is always a little hectic, but I was able to take a moment this past Saturday night to appreciate the season while decorating the Christmas tree. I rocked out to holiday music while hanging vintage ornaments I found at TSR favorite Brownstone Treasures in Brooklyn for only $1-$2 each. The solid bulbs were purchased from Pier 1 imports for only $6 for 10.

I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and safe holiday. The Sale Rack looks forward to sharing many a bargain with you in the new year!

Best wishes,

The Sale Rack

UPDATED: Which One are You?

2008-12-15T14:21:00.001-05:00

Last month, The Sale Rack took a poll to find out which term described you best--Frugalista, One-less-Burberry-ista, or Cheapsista. Almost half of you identified yourself as a Cheapsista.

Today, I discovered that the LA Times has coined a few of their own terms. They are:

Denial.ista: Don't mention the dismal financial outlook to this retail vixen. That pesky hiccup isn't about to squelch her splurges. She hates the words "out of stock" and she may be wholly responsible for the 4% increase Hermès saw in its third-quarter sales.

Tivo.ista: She can't bear the thought of leaving the house if she can't shop or afford the latest season's looks. Sprawled on her sofa in ratty sweats, she obsessively ogles "Sex and the City" reruns and cries into her cosmo.

Receipt.ista: This crafty ista knows that it's a buyer's -- and a returner's -- market. The National Retail Federation reports that exchanges are expected to rise 8.7% this year, and as a result, 11% of retailers plan to loosen their return policies. So the receiptista buys, she wears and she returns. Think of it as the catch-and-release approach to shopping.

BFF.ista: She makes fast friends, based on their dress sizes, and never leaves home without a hanger. She's the woman who begs, "Can I borrow that little black dress and, um, the clutch and pumps to match?"

The Sale Rack's original recession glossary:

Frugalista: One of Oxford Dictionary's word of the year finalists defined as a person who lives a frugal lifestyle but stays fashionable and healthy by swapping clothes, buying secondhand, growing own produce, etc. (Also, check out Frugalista Files, a blog about the frugal side of fabulous!)

One-less-Burberry-ista*: This is the person who is stretching the dollar by buying one Burberry peacoat instead of three. Check out NY Magazine (rich) man on the street interviews for real-life examples.

Cheap-sista*: Someone who has always been cheap and now finds it fashionable/cool/ acceptable to be thrifty with every purchase they make.

*TSR and Kathy R., both cheap before it was cool, came up with these terms after a couple glasses of wine.

Graphic: Jody Barton, NY Times

Give the Gift that Gives Back

2008-12-15T09:00:00.001-05:00

For a truly unique and meaningful gift this holiday season, I suggest you check out Oxfam's "Unwrapped" program. From a dozen chicks to school supplies to a goat, all gifts go to support those living in poverty.

For the entrepreneur on your gift list: You can give $100 to support programs that give survivors of domestic violence the basic skills to start their own soap-making business in their community. (Above)

For the handyman on your list: A $25 tool set will help communities recover more quickly in the wake of a disaster.

For the educator on your list: Only $35 will provide a student with a new desk and chair.

For the fashionista on your list: Give a girl or boy two new school uniforms for only $20!

For the gardener on your list: For $150, you can give the gift of a garden, which helps families put food on their table and earn a living by selling their fruits and vegetables in a local market.

Photos: Oxfam International

$9 for Three Glasses of Wine

2008-12-11T10:35:00.002-05:00

Winter calls for cozy and a recession calls for booze. And of course here at TSR we aim to find both on the cheap. Quartino, a cute little wine bar on Bleecker street in Soho, serves just what the name says - quartino decanters of vino - which at $9 - 15 for what equals about 3 glasses of wine ain't bad at all. With the wine you get a cozy vibe and on a cold night a warm fire. Be sure to ask for the bread and olive oil (free!) to cleanse the palette.

Quartino Bottega Organica

11 Bleecker St., New York, NY 10012 nr. Elizabeth St.

Photos: Youngna Park, New York Magazine

Sign of the Times?

2008-12-10T15:11:00.001-05:00

They say desperate times call for desperate measures. So it seems these days...

In Detroit, congregants of Greater Grace Temple prayed- with the assistance of SUVs- this past Sunday for an automoble industry miracle.

And Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich found himself in a bit of trouble this week by getting caught trying to sell President-elect Obama's senate seat. According to reports, the Rod is "financially hurting" and he thought he could cash in on the "[expletive] valuable thing." I'm sure the price tag for that seat is not TSR-worthy!

Photos: Fabrizio Constantini, New York Times (top) and CBS (bottom)

On Location: Washington, DC

2008-12-09T08:10:00.001-05:00

They say change has come to Washington. And let me tell you the change I saw in the U Street Corridor neighborhood this past weekend is something to believe in! If you are headed to our nation's Capitol I suggest you swing by this burgeoning neighborhood, the birthplace of Duke Ellington. After a few decades of decline, the area has gone from boarded-up buildings to a vibrant urban hot spot.

One place in particular I suggest that you stop by is Ruff and Ready, a "junque" store in the heart of the neighborhood. You could spend hours sorting through the maze of desks, paintings, dressers, china, textiles and tchochtkes and chattin' up the store's owner, Bill. You are sure to leave this place with an affordable treasure or two. Here's what I found....
Stackable suitcases around $20 out front of the store.

I found this rug tucked inside a box in the back room...under a $100.

I snagged three of these owls to add to my collection.

Stacks of pictures are scattered throughout the store. I found a pair of paintings of a Parisian neighborhood for $5 total in the bargain basement.

Ruff and Ready

1908 14th Street, NW

202-667-7833

Blog Spotlight: Frugal Fashionista

2008-12-05T11:11:00.005-05:00

If you are looking for an affordable alternative to the sweater jacket you spotted on Katie Holmes recently, I recommend you turn to Frugal Fashionista, a blog for "style savvy girls on a budget." For those of you on the hunt for an affordable cocktail dress for your holiday parties, check out today's feature about the Little Black Dress.

Photos/Graphics: Frugal Fashionista

Following Up: Fixing Up the Nest

2008-12-03T08:28:00.000-05:00

A few months ago Debbie K. of Cambridge turned to TSR (see "Fixing Up the Nest") to assist with her decorating-on-a-budget decision: what color to paint her living room and guest bedroom. With three out of four children out of the nest, she had decided to spruce up those rooms with a coat of paint and a few reupholstering jobs (antique chair, couch, pillows and ottomon). Many of you weighed in on your choice for the paint color for both rooms and Debbie listened. She went with the cream for the living room and chose a color that was a combination of the votes for the bedroom.

She also emloyed another money saving tip that I would like to share. She used the leftover scraps of fabric from the reupholster jobs to make the throw pillows on the couches. She can sew, so there was no additional cost to make them.

Thank you all for your input...it looks beautiful! See before photos here.

Related Post: Fixing Up the Nest, September 15, 2008

Photo: TSR

Rockin' in a Winter Wonderland

2008-12-02T10:41:00.006-05:00

Now that we know we're officially in a recession, it is time to take advantage of all the free goods/services out there! I'm using this particular post to focus on FREE and LEGAL music downloads.

-Holiday Music: iTunes is offering free holiday music each week until the end of the year. In my research for this post I discovered Free iTunes Downloads, a blog that features all the free downloads (music and video) found on Itunes.

-Up-and-Coming Artists: The NY Post has had a weekly "MPFrees" feature for quite some time now. Their mix is usually an introduction to artists who are performing in the NYC area that week.

-Chick Music: Beach Bungalow 8 has a "Mixed Tape Monday" feature that plays a mixed music list for free. From what I can see, it is not downloadable, but is fun to listen to while you are slaving away at work.

Photo: Brooklyn Vegan

It's Official

2008-12-01T12:41:00.004-05:00

We've been in a recession since last December.

Ornaments on a Budget

2008-11-30T20:54:00.009-05:00

This year I am buying my first Christmas tree since I left the nest over 10 years ago!

I don't own ornaments...any ideas on creative do-it-yourself ornaments? Or know of any stores having a nice sale?

Photo: Dr.DeNo, flickr

UPDATED: Ohhhh Jackie....

2008-11-25T07:03:00.002-05:00

TSR reader Jenifer M. sent in a tip that the Jackie cardigan from JCrew is on the sale rack for $49 (marked down from $64). As you may know, this is a TSR favorite because of its economical benefits---multi-seasonal, any and every occasion.

What I Wear Daily shows you two of many different ways to wear the Jackie:

*The photo is of Anna from What I Wear Daily, not me!

What is Your Family Recipe?

2008-11-24T11:43:00.008-05:00

What are you cooking this Thanksgiving? Hopefully, your feast doesn't entail slaughtering your own turkey.

For those of you on a budget, I'd like to share my Broccoli Cheese Casserole receipe. It consists of low-budget, common ingredients and it is the most delicious (and fattening) thing you will ever eat. And tastes even better heated up Day 2!

Grocery List:

- 1 large jar of Cheese Whiz or for the food snobs use Velveta ;)

- 2 boxes of frozen chopped broccolli
- one onion
- can of fried onions
- box of instant white rice
- 2 cans of cream of mushroom
- 1 can water chestnuts--the secret ingredient!

1. Slice onion and saute in a large skillet with olive oil
2. Add thawed chopped broccoli, stir 2-3 min
3. Add your 2 cans of cream of mushroom, stir 1-2 min
4. Add the magic ingredient, one can of water chestnuts
5. Once that is all blended, add jar of cheese whiz--THE BEST PART
6. Add the cooked rice
7. To top it off, sprinkle the fried onions for a beautiful presentation

Please share your family recipe(s)....

TSR in the News

2008-11-23T13:59:00.006-05:00

In case you missed it, The Sale Rack's source of affordable Moroccan poufs was the topic of heated discussion on Apartment Therapy this past Friday. In fact, the well-known design blog called it one of their 10 top posts of the week. Numerous Apartment Therapy readers weighed in with comments ranging from "Yuck" to "Even at $19.99 it looks cheap" to "Great tip...keep the recessionista tips coming!" Other commenters provided their own source for poufs under $250. Who knew poufs could stir up so much emotion?! Seriously, you've got to read the comments to believe it. All kidding aside, the upside to all the snide opinions and constructive tips is that we now see there is a Moroccan pouf for every budget. Democratic design at its finest moment!

Photo: Elle Decor via Style Court via Apartment Therapy

Gift Wrap

2008-11-20T22:36:00.000-05:00

I am loving the wraps that the street vendors are selling these days, especially the animal print pattern. The print scarves are $10 and the solids are $5. They are great to wear and for dressing up your furniture. Just throw that bad boy on the back of a chair...top of a table or console...or at the foot of a bed. I think this is a great gift idea. This stand is on lower 5th ave between 17th and 18th.

Leopard print scarf- $10