Click here to see all the latest fall styles. We’re crazy for the tissue merino stripe sophie bateau top and the sophie reversible wraps! So cozy! – L
I’m going to let you in on a little secret that my friend Jo and I recently pinkie swore we’d never tell (sorry, Jo!). Jo, one of the best bargain shoppers I know, recently stumbled upon a website selling outrageously discounted Christian Louboutin shoes (we’re talking $150 down from $800). When she first showed me the site, I was ready with my credit card to buy ten pairs. But then I thought better of it: how could they be selling all of the latest styles at such low prices? I’d seen knock-offs before by brands like Oh Deer!, but nothing as precise as these (shape, logo, and red colored sole). Jo agreed to be the guinea pig, and ordered the classic nude heel for us to inspect. As someone who has spent a fair amount of time at the Louboutin store (yearning for, not buying), I can tell pretty well what’s real and what’s not. After seeing these in the flesh, it’s safe to say they are not—the quality of the leather is a dead giveaway. However, if you’re not morally opposed to ripping off the great Christian, and you’re looking for a cheap way to get your feet into one of the sexiest shoes out there, check out louboutinstain.com. We’re still deciding if we’re going to cross over to the fake side. – L

Images above are from Louboutinsatin.com. Each shoe comes in a replica Louboutin box and signature red shoe bag.
Calling all bargain hunters! The long awaited Outnet has finally arrived. The brain child of Natalie Massenet, Founder and Chairman of NET-A-PORTER, sells designer goods at 40 to 60% off their retail price. It’s still on the expensive side, but there are some good deals to be found, and if you’ve been coveting a certain Chloe piece from last season, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll find it on Outnet. With all these great online discount sites popping up, maybe the recession isn’t such a bad thing after all? Happy shopping! – L
If you’ve ever been to a sample sale in New York City, you know it’s not always a pleasant experience. There’s the waiting in line for three hours in the freezing cold (mom, remember Prada?), the stripping down to you skivvies in a room full of strangers, the grabbing and trampling by over-eager shoppers…need I go on? The newly launched “by invitation only” site Gilt.com provides members with a civilized solution. Three times per week, Gilt posts a new lot of past-season designer clothes at 60 to 80 % off their retail prices. Today they’re selling brands like Marc Jacobs, Acne, and Gryphon. Take it from someone who’s been to a lot (and I mean a lot) of NYC sample sales, Gilt has both unbelievable prices and a great selection of pieces. And while the site calls itself a “private online community,” Suzanne and I were able to sign up sans invite. Check out Gilt.com and join us in refusing to pay full price for designer goods! -L
Clockwise from top left: Gryphon, Acne, Marc Jacobs, and Lavender Label by Vera Wang.