While the retail industry in general has seen a decline in sales over the past year, one particular format, online sample sale sites are doing relatively well in this recessionary climate, as shopaholic women and men with a taste for designer items are drawn to this online guilty pleasure.
The deep discounts on designer fashions and accessories, the aura of exclusivity and the convenience of online shopping appeals to both men and women, who are signing up by the millions to join these cool websites. They have become the “club” to which every person wants to belong.
The bargains are hidden from the public eye; only members can view them — although becoming a member is usually not difficult. It varies from invitation only sites to ones which accept anyone who registers. The sales are up for short periods of time and qualities are limited. Returns and exchanges tend to be restricted. Discounts can run as high as 80 percent off.
With all of these “exclusive” online sales, now it’s even easier to recession proof your men’s wardrobe without having to skimp on style. Most sample sales sites offer women’s designer clothes and accessories, however there are now a few top sites which have gotten into the men’s market.
Here are my top eight websites for men where membership definitely has its privileges:
- Gilt Groupe created in 2007, savings up to 70% off, runs 36-hour sales on Men’s, Women’s, and Children’s fashion, and other high-end goods. A partnership with the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) secures their merchandise supply chain directly from the designer, therefore your orders ship almost immediately. Opt for low-cost shipping ($4.95) Added bonuses include a free wait list on items that sell out. Membership to Gilt is by invitation only. Join Gilt Groupe with this invitation link: http://www.giltgroupe.com/invite/lisa103
- Rue La La, created in 2008, hosts 2-day designer brand boutiques, with savings up to 30-80% off retail. Membership is also by invitation only, but you can also put your name on the waiting list. Join Rue LA LA with this invitation code: This Company has also revolutionized ecommerce with the introduction of the first mobile website for private sale shopping. The launch of m.ruelala.com takes the convenience of online shopping to an entirely new level by allowing consumers to shop private sales from the convenience of their iPhones. Join RueLaLa with this invitation link: http://www.ruelala.com/invite/lmartin377
- Haute Look, launched in December 2007, organizes exclusive 12-48 hour online private sales and has quickly become a must-shop destination with its varied selection of both indie designers and high-end brands, as well as the up to 75% off savings. Membership is free and prior to each sale, members are sent an email notice announcing the brand and start date/time of the sale. Join HauteLook with this invitation link: http://www.hautelook.com/invite/8922
- Ideeli, one of the first invitation-only shopping communities, offers daily sales events, with prices up to 80% off retail. This site features mostly men’s accessories, and occasionally includes men’s resources. For $7.99 per month, you can become a 1st Row Member and shop the site an hour earlier than 2nd Row Members, and will also receive mobile alerts (depending on your carrier). Join Ideeli with this invitation link: www.ideeli.com/invite/lisa9
Four other websites, which are smaller and contain limited and/or offer unique selections, are Beyond The Rack , The Top Secret, Jackthreads – “invite only”site for street/skate community, and for guys in NY area – TheChoosybeggar.
Merchandise moves quickly on these websites, so if something catches your eye, make sure to snap it up before it’s gone!
Do you have a favorite men’s private sample sale site not mentioned here? Share it with StealthStyling by posting a comment below.
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Every man should know how to conduct himself in any setting, whether it be social, work, or at home. Being a gentleman today is not about dos and don’ts, but about common sense, courtesy and respect of others. Knowing the basics of good manners will take you far.
Work Place – be professional.
Being well-mannered in a work setting means being approachable, open to constructive criticism, speaking expressively with tact, and particularly be positive and encouraging to others. Some fundamental good manners will go a long way in helping you during your rise to the top.
Chivalry – be a man.
Chivalry is free and it gets the girl. A woman still appreciates a man who takes the time to hold a door open for them. Remember to be presentable and well-groomed when taking a woman on a date. Knowing what to wear and when to wear it is important if you want to save your reputation.
Whenever dining out, be sure to allow your female companion to be seated first. For those of you who dare to be really chivalrous — it is common practice to stand when a woman gets up to leave the table.
In conversation, simply be yourself and be involved – ask about your date and follow up on their responses. Women detest men who brag or have huge egos and will quickly become bored when it becomes clear you are not particularly interested in them, or if you are interested, it is just not in their “personality”.
Respect – be considerate.
Etiquette and mannerisms are simply learned behaviors and you will have the greatest successes in life by thinking positively and being proactive – rather than thinking negatively and being reactive. A chivalrous gentleman should always think about how his tone and his attitude might be taken, and whether or not it reflects his intentions. By implementing a courteous, respectful attitude and speaking thoughtfully – you will achieve a greater degree of respect from your family, friends, co-workers, partners as well as lovers.
So if you following these basic guidelines, rest assured people will perceive you as a man of good breeding, class and taste, and one they wish to socialize and conduct business with today. Not to mention the fact that the women are always elated to meet a “real” gentleman.
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Essential man’s wardrobe…
When it comes to building a functional wardrobe, the first thing every man should do is assess their lifestyle. No matter what the particular situation, whether it is casual or professional, there are pieces every man should have in his wardrobe in order to look sharp and well dressed. With these basic elements in place, most men can be ready to respond to whatever situation presents itself and feel totally prepared.
Many clients ask me what they need and usually the answer is they don’t need anything, however they generally do not have the correct clothing items for their lifestyle needs; most having a cluttered closet full of ill-fitting, possibly outdated duds and stacks of shoes which are not fit to wear. So the key is creating a portfolio of appropriate, quality items which fit their way of life.
I believe there are ten closet essentials which are the backbone of a stylish man’s wardrobe. They can be worn almost year round and don’t follow any particular fashion trends. Most likely you already have most if not all these wardrobe basics, but regardless of your age, income, profession or personal style, your closet should always contain these classic pieces:
Overcoat- Grey Trousers/Khaki Pants
- A pair of Dark Denim
- White button-down dress shirt.
- Quality leather Black shoes & matching belt.
- A classic well-fitting Suit in a dark navy, black or gray.
- V-neck sweater
- A solid-colored tie.
- Sports coat
- Classic Polo Shirt/T-shirt
In regards to the essentials, always purchase the highest quality possible. Quality pieces will have the best fit and believe it or not, value. Think of your wardrobe as an important investment that you cannot afford to pass on. It’s always better to be the best-dressed man in the room. The essential wardrobe, worn proudly, establishes the fact that you are a man of style, purpose, and power.
Life is demanding for men these days – having extremely busy schedules, juggling work, relationships, and a social life all in a day which is never long enough. It definitely helps having an image consultant, saving you valuable time, who would take you step by step through a process of discovering your personal style and dressing you according to it. However, not everyone is emotionally or financially ready for this kind of experience; therefore my last piece of advice is to start simple and expand according to your lifestyle and body type. More on Men’s style advice…
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