Jun
3
Oh, the keerus pants.
Filed Under Babies and Children, Clothes, Dinner at Home, Eat and Drink, Exclusive savings, Great deal, Men, Sale, Shoes, vacation | 5 Comments
What? You’ve never heard of keerus clothes? Well, then. You might want to start by learning the origin of the word. The concept of keerus clothing is simple, really. In fact, you have keerus items in your closet right this secend, or you should. They are the cornerstones of your wardrobe - the pieces you reach for when you want to feel comfortable, when you don’t know what to wear, when nothing else will do. They are the comfort food of fashion. Like the best comfort food, they are well made and not so precious they can’t be enjoyed. They are Simply Savory lasagna made with fresh ricotta, not from the freezer. They are piping hot, hand-cut fries with real cheese at the Whig. They are lightly-salted Kettle chips with chipotle mayo from Rosewood Market.
Most men have entire keerus outfits. The Shop Tart’s husband has a winter keerus outfit (tan corduroys, v-neck sweater, button-down shirt, sport coat if necessary, the Burberry one, of course) and a summer one (Lacoste knit shirt, orange and red seersucker shorts, Converse sneakers.) A certain chic boutique buyer’s husband has a year-round keerus suit: white button-down shirt and khakis, sunglasses worn on the face or as a necklace. The smartest men know their keerus clothes and stick with them. The Shop Tart has more keerus items than she can count. In fact, she has made a point of trying to purchase only keerus things, which is harder than you might think. You see, one doesn’t always know what will be keerus.
During a recent trip to Kicks, the Shop Tart tried on no less than one hundred pair of shoes (True story. Ask Trenholm, who cheerfully went to get every single pair.) She was searching for a pair to replace - or supplement - three keerus pair she had found there in the past. One was a pair of gold sandals that she almost wore to death last summer. She wore what was left of them in the Dominican Republic in November and they are only suitable for walking back and forth to the beach now. Frustrated at her inability to find the perfect new pair that would solve all of her shoe issues, the Shop Tart was almost ready to leave. But…but…she spotted one more pair. She had seen them before, but they weren’t on sale then. And they didn’t set her heart aflutter, as some shoes will do. As it happens, these were the sort of shoes one has to try on to appreciate. She slid her large, boat-like foot into the sandal and felt a little shiver. Could it be? Could this shoe be The One? Hmmm… The other sandal was added. She walked around the store. In fact, she followed her toddler through the shop, because he insisted that she do so while he carried one of the decorative paper umbrellas. She was forced to trail behind him, singing, “Chim chiminy, chim chiminy, chim chim, chireeeee…” Which was annoying, and not just for her. Everyone in the store was forced to listen to her singing, which is less than soothing. What kind of toddler needs a traveling soundtrack?
Although the Shop Tart felt tense, the fab Tibi sandals withstood the pressure. And, dear reader, she bought them. She didn’t realize the keerus nature of the sandals immediately. It didn’t dawn on her until she wore them all weekend and for two days after that. She will be wearing them again today and probably tomorrow. Are they gold? Silver? Golden silver? Who knows? They go with everything and they feel great. Isn’t new love grand?
The keerus concept applies to more than just clothing. Everyone has a keerus breakfast. The Shop Tart’s is steel-cut oats made with hazelnut-vanilla rice milk and sprinkled with dried fruit and a handful of chopped nuts. She has several keerus lunch spots. Yesterday, she ate at Rosewood Market, where she knows that her lunch will always be fresh, healthy and delicious and she won’t have to worry about any creepy ingredients. The Mediterranean pizza special was divine.
Today, she has plans to dine at another keerus spot, Cloud Nine Market. Her mother has an appointment with the bra lady at Belle Vie and the Shop Tart has to pick up the bras she ordered (Oh, how she hopes they are keerus bras!) Cloud Nine is just down the street and one of her favorites. Can’t wait!
In other news…
- LaRoque has a 50% off sale rack. Time to score an original at a fraction of the regular price.
- Mbellished is having a sizzling summer sale, 30% off everything but invitations. Time to stock up on fab hostess gifts for every summer trip!
- Shop Tart Deal Alert: Ashley Hayes, a certified Pilates instructor with a great reputation, is offering Shop Tart readers an Introductory Pilates session for only $30. This would be a private, one-on-one session with the Pilates machines. That is an incredible deal. if you haven’t tried Pilates, this is your chance. Even one session on the machines will help you bring more to your mat practice. Call 803-800-6726 for your appointment as soon as possible, as she will get booked.
- Just the thing has fab floral jewelry. Check out the “Employee Pick of the Week,” chosen by Lacie, store manager in Atlanta.
- Word on the street has it that the All-Local Farmers’ Market will be held permanently at 701 Whaley, starting July 4th. Love that space, love the market, love the idea!
Happy Shopping and don’t forget to tell them you read it on the Shop Tart!
May
28
Rainy day fun.
Filed Under Babies and Children, Clothes, Eat and Drink, Good Cause!, Great deal, Jewelry, Men, Sale, Shoes, Wine, cheap treat, live music | Comments Off
Some days aren’t meant for work. Due to inclement weather, they aren’t so great for play, either. The Shop Tart recommends a little Happy Hour, grown-up style. That would be as opposed to just-out-of-college-and-broke style, which involved slurping up as many vodka tonics as possible before Goatfeathers’ happy hour ended and drinks were rendered unaffordable. Grown-ups have more fun, they really do. Once upon a time, on a warm and dreary day, the Shop Tart had childcare and nothing to do. She also had a cell phone, with plenty of fun people in the contact list. Her first text - “having bad day. glass of wine at gourmet?” - was answered with a cheerful phone call and happy hour was ON.
Lucky for the ladies, the outdoor tables at Gourmet Shop had cleared by 3:30 or so when they arrived. Yes, that’s a bit early for a glass of wine, but it was kind of close to a weekend. As they perused the wine list, they were cheered to see splits of bubbly were available. Or so they thought. As it turns out, the low prices were for full-sized bottles. The lovely people at the café realized the futility of trying to mark up prices for drinking in when someone could just run inside the shop, grab a bottle and uncork it themselves. So, this lovely bottle of Pol Clément set them back just $9.99.
As mentioned before: Early Wine + No Food = Unseemly Behavior. The Shop Tart recommends the cheese and pâté plate. She and her friend took the waiter’s suggestion on cheese and pâté and were not disappointed. Not one little bit.
Also available on the menu:Two cheeses and two pâtés, One cheese and two pâtés…or the deluxe Three cheeses and two pâtés. Or you can go pâté-only. Or cheese extravaganza. Or prosciutto and parrano. Or melty Brie with baguette. Are you hungry? Shop Tart Tip: You can always recork a bottle and take it with you, so there is no need to guzzle. You can also leave a glass or two for the waiter. Did you know that “pourboire” means “tip” in French? And that it translates literally to “for drinking?” But do not consider the dregs of your wine to be an actual tip. Leave a real one, as your waiter is probably the last guy to go home, because of those irritants still out on the sidewalk. And do offer to close out your tab as soon as you are finished ordering so he can tally his sales. That is a nice thing to do.
Yesterday was a rainy day but a bottle of bubbly was not at all what the Shop Tart wanted. To cheer herself up and entertain her middle child and his friend, who had both given stellar performances in the school play that day, she accompanied them to Simply Savory for ice cream cones. Delish! There was a group of ladies in the wine room who appeared to be enjoying a birthday luncheon; this looked like a great deal of fun and the Shop Tart thinks she would like to entertain a group of ladies there herself one of these days. After that, she made a quick trip to Kicks, where spring shoes are 30% off. How could she resist? She’s patiently waiting to see if those multi-colored Nanette Lepore sandals can be located in her size. These perfect-for-the-rest-of-your-life Jill Stuarts are on sale:
And, yes, the Shop Tart knows you were eying that fab pair in the background. Gorgeous! They are by L.A.M.B. and are also on sale.
Now, are you looking for a real deal? A deal so good, you’ll feel giddy? How about these super-comfortable, classic ballet flats by Restricted? They were only $54 full-price, so at 30% off they are more or less free. As you may know, the Shop Tart gets emotional about her passion for tan patent leather shoes of any style. Navy patent is mad sophisticated. And fuschia? Yes! You could score all three for the price of just two.
These are also on sale and practically free.
Out of your size? Never fear. There were plenty of new things in all price ranges (Psssst…mostly on the lower end. We love summer!) The Shop Tart predicts the Jeffrey Campbell gold ruffled sandals will sell out by the end of the week and the shell and lizard pair next to them won’t be far behind.
Lurrrve these Nanette Lepores (you can see the green soles reflected on the table!) and the metallic Andrea Carranos next to them. All three could be worn through summer and into fall (and winter…and next spring…)
There were more new kicks by Enigma and Restricted (always great prices!), Nanette Lepore and others.
And these were just out of the box, not even on the floor yet.
After Kicks, the Shop Tart stopped by Non(e)such for a wedding gift - Annieglass with a gold rim to complement the bride’s china pattern - which they wrapped and mailed for her. She spent a few minutes chatting with the ladies at VanJean before heading home to make eggplant pizza. What a lovely way to fill a rainy day with sunshine!
In other news…
- If you have a child or just like to shop for them, do stop by KD’s Treehouse and join their club for occasional emails and special discounts!
- Today and tomorrow, get 20% off spring and summer merchandise and 10% off denim at M Boutique.
- Bohemian has new shipments from Free People, Dogeared (gold necklaces, irish linen bracelets and other jewelry) and Ragdoll (super comfortable layering tanks and bandeaus in charcoal and a beautiful range of purples.)
- Spring merchandise at Max and Prissy is at least 30% off.
- Tonight from 5 to 7 pm, head to Cellar on Greene for a $7 wine tasting with one of the Shop Tart’s favorite wine reps, Michael Cramer. Pinot noir and chardonnay. Yum.
- Friday evening, Sprummer is the place to be. Great time, great cause. The Shop Tart and her husband had a ball last year and can’t wait to go back. Edwin McCain and the Blue Dogs are playing, the food will be fabulous and so will the company (ahem.) Get your tickets now.
- Everything is on sale at Weathers, y’all. S’crazy!
- Solstice is teaming up with Three Dog Bakery for another Doggie Wine Dinner on June 18th. Call the restaurant for details and reservations.
Happy Shopping and don’t forget to tell them you read it on the Shop Tart!
Mar
9
Follow the Shop Tart!
Filed Under Babies and Children, Beauty, Clothes, Eat and Drink, Exclusive savings, Good Cause!, Men, Shoes, Sip and Shop, Trunk Show | Leave a Comment
The Shop Tart had a harrowing joyful weekend, caring for her darling children all by herself while her husband rocked out to Morrissey in Myrtle Beach. The Shop Tart considered going, but there is no Westin Hotel in Myrtle Beach. She does love Morrissey. And his new album did not disappoint. She is terribly grateful to her dear friends Kristy and Anthony, who stopped by for a glass of wine on Friday evening to save her from drinking alone with the children, which is neither safe nor in good taste entertain her with adult conversation. Finally, it’s warm enough to have drinks on the porch, which the Shop Tart plans to do, every single night until it gets cold again. Shop Tart Tip: If you want people to just drop by, and you should, always keep a few snacks on hand. Nuts and olives will suffice. Frozen, ready-to-heat treats, like spanakopeta from Cloud Nine, earn bonus points. And cute cocktail napkins, you should definitely have those. The Shop Tart is just a tiny bit embarrassed that she offered the balsamic almonds in the jar, rather than in a pretty silver bowl, and forgot the cute napkins entirely. Oh, well. We all know the wine is the most important part anyway, n’est-ce pas?
Saturday was soccer day, with one match in the morning and one in the afternoon. In between the matches, one of the soccer players had choir and the other one accompanied the Shop Tart, his toddler brother, a friend and her two daughters to Yo Burrito for lunch. The Shop Tart has found Mexican to be an excellent cuisine for children, as chips are usually provided early on in the experience. The toddler loves chips and is blissfully quiet when his mouth is full of them. Saturday night, Mr. Shop Tart returned and the Shop Tart enjoyed a long bath (with the fan on, so she couldn’t hear the children. She knows you understand.)
Don’t we love spring? Every single shop is filled with bright, shiny new things and more boxes are being unpacked every single day. And outside dining (and drinking!) is de rigeur. Lovely!
The week ahead…
- Owner and shoe goddess Jackie Howie of Kicks founded Get in the Pink to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of her shops. On May 9th, Get in the Pink will host three fab events: The Stiletto Sprint (men welcome), a 10K road race and Soirée on the Saluda. All proceeds from the day benefit the American Cancer Society. The Shop Tart will be there to cheer the runners and she will certainly toast them at the soirée that evening! Registration for the events begins March 15th.
- Shop Tart Savings Alert: Shop Tart readers get 10% off at Revente and Sid & Nancy when they mention the Shop Tart. Save even more on fab designer treats!
- Shop Tart Savings Alert: Are you totally ready for the Cup? Dress? Check. Shoes? Check. Friends to “watch horses” with? Check. Hat? Oops! 2G’s has Cup hats and they are offering 10% off to anyone who mentions the Shop Tart, so go get one!
- Solstice is having Babysitter Night again tomorrow night. Take the kids and let them be entertained while you enjoy a fab meal in peace, you happy party parents. Just like being at Club Med. Mwah!
- Love your spa treatments? Love to save money so you can have them regularly? Tranquil Moments Day Spa is offering a Spa Club for $49.99 a month. With your membership, you’ll receive one one-hour spa service of your choice each month, along with a 25% discount on additional spa services. And…earn points for each service you enjoy to get even more discounts on future services. Wheeee!
- On Wednesday, head to Granger-Owings for a trunk show featuring Corneliani, Zanella, Robert Talbott and Lorenzo Banfi Shoes. Enjoy a light lunch and refreshments between noon and 2 pm and register to win a Roger Talbott shirt or seven fold tie of your choice.
- M Boutique has a brand new shipment of BCBG, a line known for producing wearable trends, so go get it!
- Save $25 on a color treatment or $10 on a haircut at Urban Nirvana with coupon - email the Shop Tart and she’ll forward you the coupon.
- Weathers is having a Custom Clothing Event starting today and continuing through Saturday. No matter your political persuasion, you must admit our president is an attractive man with great suits. Word has it he favors Hart Schaffner Marx. The event includes Hart Schaffner Marx and Measure Up Custom Shirts. Here’s how it works: Receive 15% off when you order a custom suit, sport coat or pair of slacks or 25% off when you order two custom suits, sport coats or slacks and order three custom made dress shirts and receive the fourth one absolutely free! On Wednesday, representatives from both lines will be in the store to assist you with your choices.
- Did you go to Camp Gravatt? The Shop Tart did, for five glorious days in the summer after second grade. Do you like peanut butter and chocolate? The Shop Tart does. Stop by the Art Shack Gallery and Cafe for a (peanut butter and chocolate) Gravatt Square. All proceeds from the sale of Gravatt Squares will be donated to the Gravatt Scholarship Fund.
Happy Shopping and don’t forget to tell them you read it on the Shop Tart!
Jan
13
Cozy lunch, kickin’ it old-school.
Filed Under Bags, Clothes, Eat and Drink, Great deal, Men, New Shop Opening, Sale, Shoes | Leave a Comment
Baby, it’s cold outside. Maybe you even have the sniffles. Don’t you want to just hunker down in a dark booth and eat some comfort food? You don’t? You want a salad instead? The Shop Tart knows the place for both, Yesterday’s. You know, the place with the guy in the bathtub above the door.
The Shop Tart really misses Kristy now that Tullulah is closed, so she begged her to come to lunch. Some people don’t like to have lunch with the Shop Tart, because she won’t let them eat until she snaps a photo or three of their food. Kristy understands. She started with coffee.
Notice the chic little phone, perfectly acceptable at lunch, when the Shop Tart feels free to do some minimal texting and even more minimal reading of e-mail. In case you didn’t know, phones are absolument verboten* at dinner. The Shop Tart recommends keeping it in your pocket, so you can check it when you go to the ladies’ room. Ahem.
The Shop Tart ordered a Yesterday’s classic, “Meat and 2.” Shrimp Gumbo, accompanied by stewed zucchini and tomatoes and collard greens, looks kind of gory in a photo but was immensely satisfying to eat, especially when mixed together and doused with hot sauce. Delish!
The Shop Tart loves hailing from the South, where a serving of vegetables seasoned with pork still counts as a serving of vegetables. It is the other white meat, after all.
Speaking of meat, the Shop Tart would like to give a big kiss to the first person who added it to salad. She used to hate salad, until they added meat. Kristy’s California Salad with chicken was divine - and the Shop Tart knows, because she had one last week. The warm grilled chicken on top turns this salad into a serious meal. Yum!
The muffin on the side is basically a free dessert. Not quite sure what it is, but it tastes kind of apple-y and is superb. By the way, if you do want to share a pitcher of beer at lunch (hey, it happens), you won’t feel out of place in the Yesterday’s bar, where pitchers of beer are de rigeur any time of day or night.
The restaurant has been open since 1976 and could claim to be the inspiration for all the pretenders - those chain restaurants with mail-ordered kitsch on the wall. Of course, Yesterday’s is far too cool to make such a claim. Yesterday’s is the real deal. Unlike those big chains, with their over-enthusiastic yet not-so-secretly angry servers, Yesterday’s soothes the soul. Relax as you gaze at the fish tank. Just for fun, see if you can find the beer signs reflected in the glass.
As the Shop Tart’s lunch was ending, a group of five men came in. They were big guys and took up two four-tops. Yesterday’s is the perfect spot for hungry men (maybe you’re looking to meet one?) Their lunches:
The Shop Tart knows the mothers of the two men who ordered green vegetables would be very, very proud. mashed potatoes with gravy…mmmmm…
The menu at Yesterday’s is huge. If you’re in a hurry, take a look before you go. But don’t be in too much of a hurry. Sit back and enjoy the cozy bar atmosphere, smack dab in the middle of the day.
In other news…
- Kicks is planning a big event for their 10th Anniversary. Stay tuned for details! Fall and winter shoes are still 50% off.
- AnnaBelle at LaRoque is planning something fabulously lady-like to show off the new shop…stay tuned for that as well!
- Wish is having a Winter Clearance Sale. Outerwear and sunglasses are 50% off, leggings are $15, some jewelry is 50% off and Winter dresses are priced as low as $15.
- Mary has brand new spring and resort from Tibi and Trina Turk, as well as new jeans and skirts from Citizens. Look for a shipment of lower priced dresses and tops to arrive this week.
- Sophie’s new boutique basement has lots of great labels like BCBG, Trina, Tibi, CK Bradley, Velvet, Ella Moss, Juicy and Free People at 60% off. Denim including Paige, Citizens, Seven, J Brand and William Rast is also 60% off. All shoes 50% off. Hooray!
Happy Shopping and don’t forget to tell them you read it on the Shop Tart!
* Yup, mixing languages. Probably mangling spelling, too. So?
Jan
7
Sweaty Man Ballet.
Filed Under Babies and Children, Bags, Clothes, Eat and Drink, Men, Sale, Shoes | Leave a Comment
The Shop Tart loves the Sweaty Man Ballet, otherwise known as basketball. As far as sports go, it’s a pretty good one, because the games are short and you can see the guys’ arms and legs. Yum. Anyhow…
She and Mr. Shop Tart - and a bunch of other people - love date night at the Hunter Gatherer followed by a basketball game followed by an after-game drink at the Hunter Gatherer. The Colonial Center and the bar are within walking distance of each other. Don’t you love a brisk walk after dinner? When it’s cold outside, it feels lovely to burst into the Colonial Center, instantly warm. After the game, take another brisk walk for a nightcap at Hunter Gatherer - two if we won*.
The food is fab, from the Portabella Gyro to cheeseburgers to Tofu Marsala to Caw Caw Creek Pork to Duck to salads…ahem. It’s all good, m’kay? The Shop Tart is a fan of Homer’s Greek Salad with an addition of grilled shrimp.
She also likes Stoli O and club soda. Want to make something of it?
On a recent visit with her children - not a date night per se, but loads of fun all the same - they chose pizzas and a Hummus Plate. While the pizzas are available with more interesting ingredients (Try the Bad Trip or Main Street Mediterranean), children like pepperoni. The crust is superb, neither burnt nor mushy.
The Hummus Plate - with regular and spicy black bean hummus - is a treat, even for grown-ups.
If you prefer to have your last drink at home, grab a growler of your favorite Hunter Gatherer beverage. Owner Kevin Varner brews the beer in house and it’s the best in town. Rinse and bring it back for a re-fill.
Cute babies are welcome at the Hunter Gatherer, provided they stay in their seats and don’t get underfoot. They love cheese pizza. The Shop Tart loves her baby. Mwah!
The brew pub is also a great place to find undiscovered art at a friendly price, so take a look at the walls.
Ready to plan that date? This is the men’s schedule and this is the women’s. See you there!
In other news…
- LaRoque is a work in progress and it’s looking great. They’re in and out of the shop this week, so if you really need something call first or just pop your head in to see if AnnaBelle’s around. Here’s your sneak peek:
- Kicks Sale is going strong. They’re moving things out to make room for Spring merchandise. Stay tuned for details about a promotion to celebrate their 10th Anniversary this month and the Sidewalk Sale next month.
- Speaking of date night, do you love yourself some Sk8ter Boi? Y’all should head to the Columbia Museum of Art’s Opening Reception for “Sk8 and Cre8″ Friday night from 5 to 7 pm. Free with admission or membership.
- VanJean has put out a ton of new Resort Wear. Not headed to a resort? Buy an outfit, throw yourself a Margarita Party and save it for Spring!
- The Shop Tart loves free wine: Cellar on Greene is hosting free tastings tonight and tomorrow night, from 5 to 6:30 pm. Sounds like happy hour!
Happy Shopping and don’t forget to tell them you read it on the Shop Tart!
* Half of one if you’re the driver!
Jan
2
The whirlwind is over. Wasn’t it fab? The Shop Tart loves January, a time to relax and go low-key after all the hustling and bustling in December. Speaking of The Hustle, the Shop Tart wore a jumpsuit on New Year’s Eve. Yes, y’all, a jumpsuit. Not only did she wear one, she predicts you will, too - or at least consider it. Just be careful - the Shop Tart almost made the mistake of pairing a black metallic mesh Whiting and Davis bag with the jumpsuit, which would have been just a touch too costumey, n’est-ce pas? A vintage 40’s peplum jacket with a fur shawl collar and Michelle Vale bag took the 80’s edge out of the look. At least, um, the Shop Tart hopes they did. Her friends were too kind to say.
Where will you find your jumpsuit? That depends on your price range and which shops jump up to the plate. Yves St. Laurent makes a lovely one and, for the you-should-really-put-this-in-your-retirement-account-instead price of $2890, the Shop Tart is certain it flatters any figure. YSL offers a more casual version for the why-not-take-a-trip-instead price of $1780. On to more realistic options…
Last year, VanJean carried a cute casual version by Tibi, if the Shop Tart remembers correctly*. And if in fact it was Tibi, the price was probably palatable, if not bargain-basement. Wonder if VanJean bought any of the Phillip Lim versions for this season? There’s a great sleeveless black, faux-bustier version with wide leg pants (around $850). The Shop Tart loves this one, but doesn’t particularly want to guess at the price. Maybe the more casual version…
Coplon’s carries Chloe and Stella McCartney, who both made fab jumpsuits this season ($995-$1600). No word if Coplon’s will carry the jumpsuits, but the Shop Tart would love to see them up close. Robert Rodriguez (also available at Coplon’s) offers a gray, draped silk version that promises to be very flattering (around $360) and would be perfect for the store - and the Shop Tart’s closet!
We can only hope that M Boutique, the Bohemian, Belladea and Mary score a chic jumpsuit or three for us to rock. Alice + Olivia produced a mad cool jersey version with flutter sleeves for Spring (around $368). Just Sayin’. The Shop Tart is putting her money on M Boutique, usually the first shop to offer the latest thing at a price we like. Both Lola and Max and Prissy like the edgier pieces, too. Hmmm…
The Shop Tart is considering offering some sort of prize to the first reader to spot a jumpsuit for sale in town. If you are a local shop owner or employee planning on carrying a jumpsuit, let the Shop Tart know and you’ll be featured in a post. Stay tuned!
In other news…
- Mary and Martha’s is offering knife sharpening year-round for $6 a knife. Wonder if they can sharpen the Shop Tart’s Cuisinart blade…
- Finleaf Gallery is closed until January 6th.
- Weathers is having a 2-for-1 Sale. Standard rules apply (buy one, get a second of equal or lesser value absolutely free.)
Happy Shopping and don’t forget to tell them you read it on the Shop Tart!
* She does remember that it looked très chic on store manager Christina with a fab pair of metallic thong sandals.
Dec
18
Best places in town to run into your friends from high school.
Filed Under Babies and Children, Bags, Clothes, Eat and Drink, Good Cause!, Great deal, Home, Jewelry, Men, Sale, Shoes | Leave a Comment
Now, the Shop Tart realizes you might not want to run into your friends from high school, but really, isn’t it time to get past that? Go get your hair done, put on a nice outfit and go out to lunch. You might see someone fun (even if they weren’t fun in high school) and end up making plans for the evening. After all, you can only share so much holiday cheer with your family. The Shop Tart never fails to see old friends in these lunch spots:
- The Gourmet Shop. It’s always bustling, you can pick up a few last-minute holiday gifts and the food is scrumptious. Now that you’re older, you probably think you should order the Seasonal Green Salad, no bread, no croutons, with a side of smoked salmon. Delicious choice, but why not pretend your metabolism is back in high school and go for the Brie and Bacon Croissant? Just this once, for old times’ sake.
- Mr. Friendly’s. You’ll run into people you know and they might be with their parents. You are now mature enough to say hello to the parents and act interested, m’kay? Have a burger and fries or dig in to any one of their fab specials. You won’t really have time to eat though, because you’ll spend the whole time chatting with everyone in Columbia.
- Groucho’s. It’s a classic. You can order the STP Junior, but you know you want the whole thing, so go for it. And the ice - oh, the marvelous ice. The Shop Tart craved it like crazy when she was pregnant. You’re not pregnant, are you? That would be an interesting piece of news!
- Motor Supply Company. It’s still warm enough to sit on the enclosed porch and it’s perfectly acceptable to share a bottle of wine at lunch. What a fab way to fuel your Christmas shopping. Carol Saunders Gallery, right next door, is sure to have the perfect thing for your mom, like a piece of jewelry or some hand-blown wine glasses. Just don’t carry the wine glasses yourself if you drank most of that bottle.
- Adriana’s. You met one of your best friends when you worked there in high school. She introduced you to people who remain your best friends. In fact, she introduced you to your husband, a union that resulted in three adorable sons. You went to her wedding in Italy and had a blast. Not quite? Well, that’s what happened to the Shop Tart, so she has a special spot in her heart for Adriana’s. And their food is actually good now - really good - and they have great coffee and free wi-fi, so you can pretend to be working instead of looking up your high school friends on Facebook. Cool!
Last, but not least, Goatfeathers is not a lunch spot, but after a long day of shopping, chatting and behaving in a generally polite and cheery manner, don’t you need a drink or three? Happy Hour is calling your name. Goatfeathers is open when others are not and you’ll always run into someone you know. It’s nice and dark, so you can be as sullen as you were in college and no one will notice. Hooray!
In other news…
- Capes and skirts at LaRoque are 50% off. The Shop Tart thinks a lovely evening cape would be the perfect gift for someone special!
- Next week’s wine tasting at Simply Savory will be on Monday instead of Friday. They’ll also have a bubbly tasting on the Monday before New Year’s Eve. Fun!
- After a great run, Tickled Pink is closing for good. Everything is 40% off through Saturday.
- Some things in the Coplon’s sale are up to…gulp…80%. The Shop Tart is saying this very quietly, since she can’t get there until after 11 and is pretty sure people will be busting the doors down. They’re bringing merchandise from their other stores. The sale lasts for three days, through Saturday. The Shop Tart is shaking with excitement.
- Looking for a way to give back? Columbia’s Free Medical Clinic always needs your help. Count your blessings if you have a job and health insurance and do your part to help those who don’t.
Happy Shopping and don’t forget to tell them you read it on the Shop Tart!
Dec
15
Follow the Shop Tart!
Filed Under Babies and Children, Bags, Beauty, Clothes, Eat and Drink, Good Cause!, Great deal, Home, Jewelry, Meet the Designer, Men, Sale, Shoes, Sip and Shop, Trunk Show | Leave a Comment
Well, kids, the countdown is on. Shopping is more fun than ever this year, with recession-style discounts at an all time high. A buyer for a certain chic boutique said, “This will never happen again,” in an awe-filled voice as she perused heavily-discounted, current-season Louboutins at another store. The Shop Tart doesn’t know if “never” is accurate, but it might be close. This is the year to buy the boots or coat you’ll wear for the next ten. Gentlemen? Time to finally own your own tuxedo or that $1500 suit you’ve dreamed of since you found out that guy who drives the Mercedes had one. Or perhaps this is the year to get the Shop Tart that special present to show how much you care.
In the Shop Tart’s world, the only thing that trumps scoring a good deal is spending time with friends. Parties, fun lunches, Champagne before 5 pm - hooray! This weekend was fab. She and her husband went to a party in Blythewood. In order to have as much fun as possible, they hired a driver. The Shop Tart wholeheartedly endorses Aiken Limousine and Transportation (877-648-5466). Shop Tart Tip: Ask for a sedan rather than a stretch limousine and the price is delightfully reasonable. Please remember to have a safe and sober driver this season!
Saturday afternoon, les parents Shop Tart hired a sitter so they could shop together for les enfants. Shopping for children is the most fun! After, they had a lovely time at Gervais and Vine, where Lorrie Rivers was performing.
Sunday evening (which is too part of the weekend!) the El Burrito Holiday Prom was in full swing at the Whig. Every year, Susie Sheffield (owner of the divine El Burrito in Five Points) hosts a prom for her beloved employees. The drink of the evening was a Blue Hawaii, which the Shop Tart enjoyed immensely.
She snapped this shot of Susie, Pam and John posing à la Seventeen magazine’s Prom Issue. So cute!
Boys are so scared of prom…
Now, only ten more shopping days ’til Christmas and five ’til Hanukkah, so down that Blue Hawaii and get ready to party!
Where to find the deals and steals before Christmas…
- Tullulah’s having a blowout sale, in preparation for closing on Christmas Eve (*sniff*). All merchandise is priced up to 50% off. The fixtures have been marked with prices, too, so if you need some sparkly holiday decorations or a fab modern sofa, go take a look!
- Coplon’s Fall and Winter merchandise is now 50% off. Did you get the Shop Tart a present yet? Also, Slane jewelry is 25% off.
- LaRoque will add $25 to every $100 gift certificate you purchase.
- There are still plenty of choices in the Fall and Winter sale at VanJean, marked down 50 and 75% off.
- All shoes at Sophie Shoes are 50% off.
- Pout will add $25 to every gift card over $75.
- Weathers is having a big sale. Buy any one of their suits or sports coats and get one of equal or lesser value for free. Wheee! They also have a large selection of sweaters and long sleeved sport shirts at 50% off.
- The Bohemian is offering 20% off fashion accessories this week and Bohemian Home is offering 25% off dining room furniture.
- Friday, from 10 am until 8 pm, stop by the Nana Bag open house at designer Sally Peek’s house (1816 Gamewell Drive. That’s the street perpendicular to Forest Drive, right beside BeBeep, the toy store). Inventory is dwindling, but Sally can take custom orders (ready after Christmas) or offer gift certificates.
- Speaking of BeBeep, as always, they have an impressive stock of Legos. And a little bird told the Shop Tart their Thomas trains are always 20% off.
- Cottage and Vine is offering 20% off one item through the end of the year. On Tuesday, they’re hosting a Susan Hauser Jewelry show from 11 am until 4 pm, where you can receive 20% off one piece of jewelry.
- Great deal at Cellar on Green, Mr. Friendly’s and Solstice: Purchase a $100 worth of gift certificates and choose a free bottle of wine or purchase over $200 worth and choose two bottles or go nuts and purchase over $300 worth and choose two bottles AND receive a $20 gift certificate to your choice of one of the three establishments!
- Please remember those in need this season. Palmetto Place, an emergency shelter for children can always use your help.
Happy Shopping and don’t forget to tell them you read it on the Shop Tart!
Dec
12
Sleigh bells ring…
Filed Under Bags, Beauty, Clothes, Eat and Drink, Good Cause!, Great deal, Home, Jewelry, Men, Sale, Sip and Shop, Trunk Show | Leave a Comment
And the Shop Tart and her husband are getting a sitter so they can go shopping together on Saturday. This tradition began one year when they, somewhat over zealously, booked a sitter a month in advance to go to some dinner-dance thingy…and forgot to reserve a spot at the party. The Shop Tart does not believe in canceling a sitter, so they went out shopping and had a light dinner instead. So much fun! She hopes you’ll remember how lucky you are to have the financial means to shop (even if you’re hunting sales a little harder this year!) The holiday season is filled with good cheer - really! So, no complaining allowed. Slow down while you’re shopping for your loved ones, smile at your fellow shopper and have a glass or three of eggnog along the way, m’kay?
Speaking of stopping to smell the flowers, don’t you find a sip of wine relaxes you? Take a break from your holiday preparations and hit a wine tasting. Then pick out a discounted case to use for gifts or a party at yours. Here are a few options:
- Simply Savory hosts a free wine tasting today from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. The Shop Tart and her husband had a blast there last Friday - and it morphed into an evening out with friends at the Gourmet Shop Champagne tasting followed by a light meal at Saluda’s. Fun!
- The Gourmet Shop hosts a nearly free ($1) wine tasting on Saturday from 2 to 5 pm. Try some wine, buy a bottle or a case and do a little Christmas shopping while you’re there. The Shop Tart would love a pair of those pretty champagne glasses in the window. Just sayin’.
- From 12 to 2 pm on Saturday, enjoy another free tasting at Cellar on Greene. While you’re there, but a gift certificate worth more than $100 and get a feee bottle of wine.
So, hop on your sleigh and get going!
In other news…
- Today is the last day to get 40% off everything at Mary. Don’t miss it!
- The All-Local Farmers’ Market is happening tomorrow, from 8 am to noon, at Gervais and Vine. The Shop Tart thinks that delicious all-local breakfast - a steal at only $4 - is about the best start to a Saturday there is. And this one is special - local artisans will be there selling their wares for your holiday shopping pleasure. Be there, silly!
- This weekend, enjoy 30% off necklaces, shoes, holiday items and tailgating and collegiate items at Just the Thing. And…just in case you need one…pick up a metallic clutch or three, since they’re so inexpensive, to carry to holiday parties or give to your fave girlfriends as gifts.
- Through Saturday, get 20% off selected gift items at Bohemian and Bohemian Home.
- Everything at Tullulah is 25% off, except bras, which are half off. Did you hear that? Ladies’ bras are half off. Heehee. You could really rack up with that sale on bras. Bwahahaaaa. The Shop Tart is such a third grader sometimes.
- Nan’s Notes is offering 50% off mens’ gifts and 20% off Christmas Cards. They also have extended holiday hours.
- Save 25% on all in-stock merchandise at Tranquil Moments Day Spa.
- Saturday, head to Britton’s for a trunk show featuring Allen Stephenson of Southern Tide Polo and clothing by Pennington & Bailes.
- In Charleston for the weekend? Hampden Clothing on King Street is offering 20% off everything in the store.
- In Charlotte? Get 20% off jewelry at Petal Boutique and 30% off the rest of the store through the weekend.
- Don’t forget those in need as you enjoy the holiday season. The Nurturing Center is a family-focused, therapeutic treatment center for child abuse and neglect and they need your help!
Happy Shopping and don’t forget to tell them you read it on the Shop Tart!
Dec
11
Look of the Week!
Filed Under Bags, Clothes, Eat and Drink, Good Cause!, Great deal, Jewelry, Look of the Week, Men, Sale, Shoes, Sip and Shop | Leave a Comment
It’s hard to look cute when you’re pregnant. Well, unless you’re cute already, you just happen to be the manager of a fab boutique and current fashions allow for a little pooch. In this case, the pooch is very little. In fact, Bergen had to stand sideways and stick it out to prove it. Yes, the lovely manager of Mary expects her first bundle of joy in April! *Sigh* The first baby is so special… Nothing she’s wearing is maternity, but the layers work, n’est-ce pas?
That cardi is available right this second at Mary, where everything is 40% off until Friday, including denim. The Shop Tart loves those boots, too. They’re by Matisse and she isn’t sure if they’re available at Sophie Shoes right now, but there are similar styles - and all shoes at Sophie are 50% off. Her Diana Warner necklace was so pretty the Shop Tart had to take a closeup:
Speaking of that sale at Mary, the Shop Tart snagged an emerald green Trina Turk top, two new pairs of Hue tights, black and brown, and two pairs of Hanky Pankys - virtually impossible to find at 40% off!
She did not buy this Yoana Baraschi tunic with gorgeous feather detailing at the neckline. Maybe you would like to buy it and lend it to her once in a while?
And don’t you need a festive cocktail dress? This one is very flattering!
And wouldn’t a pair of holiday Hanky Panky’s make the perfect gift for that gift exchange party you’re attending? These are $28.50 a pair, but subtract 40%, and come in that cute little star box.
In other news…
- Wish in Five Points has two enormous clearance racks (50% off lowest marked price!) As usual, their full-price items are priced to please, like this gold brocade vintage-style dress for $24.
- From 2 to 7 pm today, Kicks of Lexington and Lola will help you shop for the men in your life. Frederick Jabber from Weathers on Devine Street will be there with men’s collections, sportswear and gift items. He’ll help you choose the perfect gift and provide gift wrapping and delivery back to Lola and Kicks. Enjoy light refreshments and pick up a few more items for your holiday party looks while you’re there!
- From 4 to 8 pm today, visit Britton’s for a Holiday Open House. Eat, drink and see what’s on sale!
- Max and Prissy is having a birthday! The entire store is 40% off. Join them for Cocktails and Cupcakes tonight from 5 to 8 pm.
- Tonight is a busy night. From 7 to 9 pm, enjoy appetizers, cocktails and 20% off the entire store at Charlie Mack. Look for fun giveaways, too!
- Purchase $100 worth of gift certificates to Gervais and Vine between now and Christmas Eve and they’ll throw in a $15 gift card and bottle of wine just for you! They’re also selling gift cards for the soon-to-be-open Rosso.
- In the mood to donate? Epworth Children’s Home can always use your time or money. Hep out if you can!
Happy Shopping and don’t forget to tell them you read it on the Shop Tart!
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