Happy 4th of July!

I hope everyone has a great holiday and enjoys a few too many hotdogs, beers, fireworks, ice cream cones and lazy days. If you're in the shopping mood, there are tons of sales out there. Here are just a few if you're seeking some shopping solace from the picnic table...

1. Prime Outlets: Prime Outlets has outlet malls all across the country. Yesterday, Todd and I popped over to our local Prime Outlet and scored some major goods. Just a few bright spots from the day...these savings are in addition to the already low outlet prices.

• J Crew: 30% off dresses, 40% off shorts, 40% off all clearance items...I scored a Sanur dress for $35 and Todd bought three clearance dress shirts for $12 each.
  
• Banana Republic: 40% off the entire store (off of the lowest marked price)
  
• Nike: 30% off clearance
  
• BCBG: 50% off most of the store, a few 70% off, too

2. Macy's: Macy's always runs insane holiday sales both in-store and online. Need I say more?

3. Bloomingdale's: 40-65% off in-store or online.

4. Banana Republic: 20% off new arrivals online. Use the code BRNEW. Free shipping with $100 or more. Offer expires July 5, 2009. I'm sure they have a great sale going on in-store, too.

5. C&C California: 40% off all dresses online. Use the code DRESSES40 at checkout. Offer ends July 5, 2009. Also, take an extra 40% off all sale and clearance with the code JULY409.

6. DSW: Additional 30% of all clearance with the code SUMMER7, now through July 9.

Have a great weekend!

Blade, Laser...and BLAZER...

Ok, Dodgeball references aside, blazers of all shapes, sizes and colors have recently been making there way onto the tiny shoulders of many celebrities. Although I first had a strong aversion to the "boyfriend blazer", as it brought back way too many eighties memories, I'm starting to embrace it. When the blazer is fitted, even when it's longer, it creates a really fresh look with either formal or casual attire.

I really enjoy this Aqua option from Bloomingdale's. At $88, it's not too steep if it fits well and you can get a good amount of wear out of it. It also has a nice surprise with the great striped lining that adds some interest when you roll up the sleeves. Pair this blazer with distressed, skinny jeans, a slim tank and a statement necklace or a strapless cocktail dress to tone down some frilly formal wear.

Bloomingdales.com

Phillip Lim Runway

And for kicks...Blade, Lazer and BLAZER. Thank you Purple Cobras and thank you Dodgeball.