Indulge without the Splurge: February 9, 2011

Wow. I didn't realize it was two months since I've last posted an Indulge without the Splurge post. Anyway, without further ado, let's jump right into it. With Valentine's Day coming up, there are a bunch of deals and discounts you can score this weekend:

• For all you Shoppers Optimum Points collectors, you'll be happy to know that starting this Saturday, you can  redeem them on cosmetics and fragrances for a better deal. Just in time for the big V-day, too! The redemption event runs from February 11-13, 2012, including cosmetics, select skin care products, fragrances, jewellery, hair colous, hosiery, bath foal and gel, and nail care.

         Spend 40,000 points, get up to $90 off your purchase (extra $27)
         Spend 80,000 points, get up to $200 off your purchase (extra $64)

•  Take 20% off all men's and women's items over at Old Navy. Discount is available both online and in-store. Simply use promo code: GROWNUP at checkout to receive the discount. Take note that Old Navy ships for free on all orders $50+. Promo runs till February 12, 2011.
• Missed out on last weekend's sales? Don't worry, there's still the Last Chance Sale over at Ecko. The promo is available online only and quantities, sizes and styles may be limited. Note that Ecko ships free on all orders $80+.
• Stock up on fall and winter merchandise at Aritzia. For a limited time, save 50-70% off regular-priced fall and winter items during their Snooze, You Lose sale. Offer includes select outerwear.
• How about shoes or handbags instead of flowers and chocolates? From now till Valentine's Day, all Aldo orders ship free with no minimum purchase price. Get an additional 30% off on sale boots and clearance styles and add a 10% off with coupon code: LUCKYU31511 for maximum savings! Free shipping will be automatically applied to all orders placed now through February 14, 2012. The 10% off coupon code is valid until March 15, 2012.
• How about an awesome deal from Kiehl's? When you purchase any of Kiehl's Favorite Duos, you'll receive a free deluxe sample of Kiehl's Olive Fruit Oil shampoo and conditioner and your order will ship for free! The deluxe samples will be automatically added to your qualifying order, as well as free standard shipping (regularly at $6.95). This promo run only till 11:59pm tonight so if you're interested, place your order now! If you miss out, don't fret. From February 9-14, 2012, when you bring in a friend to any free-standing Kiehl's store in Canada, you both receive a free travel sized bottle (75mL) of Creme de Corps. If you're not a newsletter subscriber, take advantage of this promo by asking the sales staff and they might just have to add you onto the database! Find a store here.
•  Till February 21, 2012, Abercrombie is putting their entire selection of jeans on sale with some discounted by as much as 50% off. The sale is available both online and in-store.
• Clinique fan? It's bonus time at the Bay again! Starting today, spend $28.50 or more on Clinique products and receive a 7-pc gift set including Turnaround Overnight Radiance Moisturizer, Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion, Repairwear Laser Focus Wrinkle & UV Damage Corrector, Colour Compact, Long Last Lipstick, Different Lipstick. Promo runs online and in-stores. Note that the Bay offers free shipping on all orders $29 and up in the beauty department when you use your HBC MasterCard or HBC Credit Card. If you spend $75+ on Clinique items between now till February 12, you'll also receive a $25 savings card. The card can be used on your next in-store purchase of $100 or more (excluding cosmetics and fragrances). More details here.
• With the launch of the new Buffalo David Bitton Canadian website, there are a bunch of great discount to be had:

          Spend $100 or more on new arrivals and you'll save $20 on your order. (automatically applied)
          Become a newsletter subscriber and receive 15% off your first purchase.
          Visit their sale section for deals on denim and more.

          Note that all orders $99+ ship for free.

• Give the boy the gift of you. Until February 14th, receive 30% off on all lingerie at Forever 21. This deal is available online only. Discounted prices already shown. Also, free shipping applies on orders of $60+.
• In the market for a new pair of runners in the GTA? For the whole month of February, get $20 off a new pair of New Balance runners when you bring in a pair of gently worn shoes. Limit of one discount per person and may not be redeemed for cash. $20 discount must be redeemed for shoes that are at least $50. Also note that your used shoes will be donated to people who need them. More details on the New Balance Toronto's Facebook page.
• Get 10% off your entire purchase at Fruits and Passion Canada for both regular and sale priced items with this printable coupon. Coupon is good till February 14, 2012.
• Another awesome gift with purchase deal: spend $35+ at Lancome.ca and receive an 8-pc gift set that's a $178 value! Use code: SPRING12 at checkout to redeem this gift. Shipping is $6.95 for expedited parcel and free on orders $85+.
• Spa Boutique wants you to save 15% off all Butter London products with promo code: BUTTER15. Simply enter the code at checkout.

Happy Shopping! Oh, and you're welcome.

Indulge without the Splurge: December 8, 2011

How's your Christmas shopping list looking like? I've got only 3 more presents left to shop for and I am DONE. Yesssssss. I can finally focus on trying to figure out what to bake for the holidays. I think the usual spread of cookies are out as Mr. J isn't allowed to eat much by way of sweets, so I've been thinking about doing something savory instead and saving the cookies as giveaways for friends and co-workers.  But if you still have a ways to go before being done with all the shopping (or maybe you're looking for more presents for yourself, hehe), I've got some great deals and warehouse sales that might interest you:

• Urban Outfitters wants you to save up to 70% off their regular retail prices! Shop online or look for one near you here.
• Guess is offering 25% off purchases when you spend $100 or more until December 18, 2011. The sale is on in stores and online, not valid towards the purchase of gift cards.
• Smart Set Canada is giving out a $10 savings card with any purchase.  The card is redeemable on any purchase from January 19 - February 8, 2012 with no minimum amount needed to spend in order to redeem the savings. The card may not be combined with any other promotion or toward the purchase of pink sticker items.  Click here for more information regarding this offer.
• Jacob Canada is offering 40% off the regular price of all merchandise.  This excludes the new collection, lingerie and beauty products.  Also not applicable at Jacob Outlet stores and online prices reflect the discount.  Offer valid for a limited time only.
• Le Chateau Canada is offering a printable coupon for 30% off all boots, coats and sweaters.  Not valid at outlet stores or online.  Coupon expires December 11, 2011.
• From December 6 until December 13, American Eagle has all sweaters & sweatshirts 40% off. Discount applies to both online and in-store.  No coupon or code is required as prices all reflect the discount. 
• Receive a free sample of Skyn Icelandic Relief Eye Cream from the Bay with this printable coupon.  Present at the Skyn Icelandic counter at The Bay to receive your sample. Valid until December 18, 2011.
• Save 40% off select styles at Banana Republic. Valid in store, until December 14, 2011.
• Save 30% off all boots, coats & sweaters at Le Chateau with this printable coupon. Valid in stores, until December 11, 2011.
• Save 50% off almost everything online at Yves Rocher. Offer excludes everyday low priced items like Beautiful Buy products, Culture Bio, some gifts and some new items. Valid until December 21, 2011.
  

There are a bunch of warehouse sales that are happening at the International Centre in Mississauga so for all of you west of GTA, you're in luck! Among the sales happening are Parasuco, Fruits and Passion, Crocs and Umbra. Great place to grab some gifts for Christmas! For more info, click here.


Go, go, go ahead, Indulge! Happy (Christmas) shopping!!

Rimmel London 60 Seconds Camouflage ushers in the Christmas cheer with greens and golds

I don't know about you, but when you combine red, green and gold the first thing that comes to mind is Christmas, my absolutest, favoritest time of the year! (And maybe that song by Culture Club..) So throughout the month, you'll see a smattering of red, green and gold polishes here at Polished Indulgence. We're kickstarting the month with one of my green pretties that has a gold shimmer to it from another cheapie but goody brand that my cousin swears by (a mommy who can only get her nails done if they dry faster than her little boy can climb out of his crib).

[Red] Gold and green, [red] gold and greeeeen...

NYC In A New York Minute Scenestealer Grey can gladly steal any scene

You know when something's so bad, it's good? Think stinky tofu (it's not called stinky for nothing but I heard it tastes awesome) or Rick Astley (I apologize in advance to any Rick Astley fans who might be reading this). I suppose the same can be said for Zoolander, the satirical comedy that poked fun at the fashion industry and the models that everyone wanted to be like. I particularly thought Ben Stiller as the slow but well meaning male model, Derek Zoolander, was a riot. And one of his "signature looks" is what immediately came to mind when I saw today's polish:

Blue Steel: "I'm pretty sure there's a lot more to life than being really, really, ridiculously good looking. And I plan on finding out what that is." (Image Credits)

Steel blue shimmery awesomeness.

Truckload Tuesdays: Shiseido Warehouse Sale Madness

I'm a huge sucker for deep discount sales. But when it's high end brands that have products going at fairly affordable prices, I'm a goner. Needless to say, I went more than a little crazy at the Shiseido Warehouse Sale last Saturday. I learned a lot from my first foray last year so this year's was relatively painless, even though my wallet disagrees. First up, loot photos!

The lot of it (not all mine though). I forgot to include a boxed gift set so that's the only one missing.

The part that's mine. (I know, still A LOT.)

Joico K-PAK Reconstructive Conditioners and Deep Conditioning Hair Mask

NARS Skin Toners and Nail Polish

Shiseido Skincare Products (my stash for a whole year)

Shiseido Cosmetics

I was really looking forward to getting a NARS Multiple something but most of what they had were bronzers and I don't really use bronzers so I passed. I also wanted to pick up some of the Shiseido sunscreen products but it was the first item to sell out. It was ridiculous. I saw women taking 4 bottles at a time! Lucky that Mr. J found those Sun Protection foundation sticks. He actually braved the rabid horde of women at the skincare section to grab a couple for me while I was checking out the cosmetics area. So proud of him! In case you were wondering, they also had the whole spectrum of liquid foundations from both Shiseido and NARS, as well as eyeshadow, primers, lipstick and lip gloss, blushes, bronzers, highlighters...everything! I just didn't get eyeshadow because I need another like I do a hole in the head. I might have gone crazy but not so crazy that I even limited my nail polish purchases to only 3. My biggest regret is that I didn't grab more when I found out how amazingly cheap they were selling for. Oh, well. There's always next year. Or next May.

Brand new, just not in the box.

Definitely unused!

Perfectly intact.

Sealed! (The blue one I tampered with. :P)

If you're hesitant about purchasing products from a warehouse sale, don't be. They provide testers so that the products you do purchase are intact and even sealed, albeit without a box. The NARS toners I got were still sealed in boxes though, but I think they're the exception to the rule. These aren't close to expiry either. All of the skincare products I purchased had their expiry pegged at 2013. That's a good leeway. If I had to make a guess, these are products that were over-ordered and are taking up too much space in the warehouse. Some of the cosmetics shades are from relatively current collections, too. One of the NARS nail polishes I got is Desperado from the Spring 2011 collection. Whereas there are others that are from older releases like another NARS polish I got: Midnight Express. But what about prices? Was it worth the hassle of waiting for at least an hour to get inside and then having to deal with little old ladies who surprisingly shove pretty hard?

***The retail prices above were gleaned from various websites including Sephora.com, Narscosmetics.com and Spaboutique.ca and are mostly in USD so the savings in CDN might even be significantly larger than shown. 

As you can see from the chart above, you can easily get as much as 50% off your total purchase price. Notice though how much different the discount rates are for the various products. The Shiseido skincare products are some of the lower discount rates. But the NARS Skin toners are among some of the deeper discounts. In fact, I'll make a sweeping generalization and say that the NARS products have better discounts than the Shiseido ones. Now, if you're wondering if it's just all about NARS and Shiseido, fear not! If you're an Orlane fan, they also had their skin care products available, as well as hair care products from salon brands like Evolve, Bain de Terre and Joico that are all also heavily discounted. A perfume section is also present with brands like Issey Miyake and Jean Paul Gaultier with fragrances for both men and women. They even had gift sets with prices that range from $35-$50 that would make for great Christmas presents for any perfume enthusiast.

Now that I have you convinced that hitting up these warehouse sales are definitely worth the effort, how exactly does one go about it without going bankrupt and/or getting the most out of it? Here are a few things I've had to learn the hard way from last year's first foray and this year's better experience.

• Do your research. I cannot stress this enough. First, know when and where the warehouse sales will be. Find out if there's ample parking or if it would be better to either carpool with a friend or be dropped off by the hubby. That's one less thing to stress about. Second, find out what brands/products will be available and which of them you definitely want. Know the retail prices of each so you can decide if the prices at the warehouse sale make them worth getting. Go to the product counters at your local mall so you can swatch products in advance and consult what products would be best for your skin care needs.
• Draw out a plan of attack. Mr. J and I are all about efficiency. He holds the bags and stands to the side while I work through the crowds to get the products. I also brief him prior to going to the sale so that he knows what to look out for if I miss them. Photos are especially helpful.
• Come early. "The early bird gets the worm." If you really want something that is liable to sell out fast, be prepared to arrive at least half an hour earlier than the warehouse sale start time. It might mean an extra half hour of queuing but it might guarantee you getting the product you want. (I learned this from missing out on the sunscreen.)
• Dress appropriately. Expect to be on your feet, in line, for at least an hour or so. Be kind to your feet (and legs) and leave the heels at home. Dress warmly if you're coming to the November sale. You'll be standing around in the cold in an open space near an airport so when the wind blows, it blows COLD.
• Bring snacks and/or drinks in case of hunger/thirst pangs. If you come closer to lunch (10-11am), chances are you won't be having lunch till 2pm. I'd hope you had a huge breakfast or you might be cranky and rushing through when you finally get inside that you won't be able to maximize haulage.
• Bring a buddy along. Waiting for a while with friends makes the waiting go much better. Just make sure you don't bring whiners along (that's counterproductive!). If you can't find anyone, make sure to bring a book or some form of entertainment to keep the waiting game from getting to you. At worst, start chatting up the person next in line to make a new friend.
• Please, please, please don't bring your kids. I always feel bad for these little cuties waiting with their moms in the cold. I've seen a few full-blown tantrums, especially when the moms don't make provisions for the comfort of their children. If you must bring them, bring a stroller or folding chairs so they won't have to stand with you. Bring something to keep them occupied as well, like toys or books as well as food and drink to keep them happy. But in the rush of the crowd inside, know that having a child with you will make it harder for you to navigate inside, as well as not give you enough time to test different cosmetics.
• Be patient, play nice but expect some shoving. Women go the craziest in the skincare section. I've been shoved, elbowed and pushed around by these little old Asian ladies that are rabid about their skincare. It's insane. But it works in my favor than I can reach over them (while saying "excuse my reach", of course) and just grab from open boxes the products I want. This is where my research comes into play as I already know what I want and have no need to ask the lady watching the counter what would work best with my skin needs.

 From last year's queue where we came later and had to wait in line for 2 hours. I forgot to take a photo this year since we waited for only about 30-40mins. FYI, the entrance is on the top far right where the people with the reflective vests are standing.

After all is said and done, you don't really have to follow all the tips I've outlined above to get the most out of a warehouse sale experience. I've even seen husbands or boyfriends by themselves walking around with lists and giving them to the ladies who man the counters, asking them to get the items on the list for them. So really, what might work for me, may not work for you.

Have you been to any warehouse sale? Would you be interested to hit one up after reading this post? Is there any product shown above that you'd be more interested to see an in-depth review on?

Indulge without the Splurge: November 10, 2011

I was debating whether I should put up a list today as my eyes itch like mad, I sneeze at least 4 times in a row and my nose is like a dripping faucet. I'd rather not mix meds but I did take Reactine already and so far, these cursed allergies are still going strong. Oh, well. Hammie says writing this will invariably give me something to be busy with and (hopefully) forget about feeling like crap for a bit. Also, we have some amazing deals and warehouse sales you HAVE to know about!

• Today only, save 40% off women's clearance priced items at The Bay. Use promo code: EXTRA40. Note that the 24 hours is based on the EST time zone and this deal is only available online. If you own a HBC Mastercard or HBC Credit Card use it to get free shipping if you spend $45 or more.
• Gap Factory Store and Banana Republic Factory Store are having the Friends and Family Sale this weekend! Get additional 35% off your entire purchase.  Not valid at regular Gap, Gapkids, Gapbaby, Banana Republic stores or online. One coupon per customer. Valid only on  Nov 12 & 13, 2011.
• Gap also offers 30% off online purchases with codes: GAPFAMILY or GAP30. Use this printable invitation for in store purchases.
• Danier Leather Factory Outlet is having its Clearance Savings Event! Extra Savings for a limited time. Take an extra discount off the lowest ticketed price from 40%, 25% or 15% off. Sale ends November 13th.
• "Like" American Apparel Canada on Facebook and get $20 off $75+ purchase. Promo ends at midnight. If you don't have a Facebook account, use promo code: LIKEUS11 at checkout for purchases made online.
• Sirens has a Grand Opening Sale (Buy 1, Get 1 50% off storewide) at its two new stores in Alberta: Chinook Centre and Bower Place Shopping Centre until November 15.
• The Bay Canada is offering a six-piece gift with any Biotherm purchase of $30 or more.  The gift includes: Skin-Ergetic Night Care, 5ml; Skin-Ergetic Day Care, 30ml; Biocils Lash Optimizer, 30ml; Biosource Cleanser, 20ml; Biosource Toning Water, 30ml; Exclusive Biotherm Pouch. This offer is valid in store and online. If you spend $75 or more, you get an additional three items: Biomains, 20ml; Aquasource Lips, 5ml; Lait corporel, 30ml. This offer is valid in store only until November 29, 2011. Don't forget to use your HBC Mastercard for extra savings!
• To commemorate Kiehl's Day, pay no tax on purchases made from November 10th - 13th. If your online purchase is $60+, receive free standard shipping. And don't forget your free samples with every purchase!
• Urban Behavior Canada and Costa Blanca are holding their Friends & Family Event from November 10-13, 2011. Simply present your invitation (click here for Urban Behavior and here for Costa Blanca) to receive a 50% discount off the original retail price. This cannot be used towards gift cards.
• Who wouldn't want a new Coach bag on a discount? Get the new Coach Patchwork Tote with a 30% off coupon at any of the Coach Factory Stores. Offer is valid till November 13, 2011 at stores in US, Canada and Puerto Rico only. Cannot be combined with any other offer. One time use only. Not valid on previous purchases.
• American Eagle and Aerie are having a Family & Friends Event this Sunday, November 13.  Save 30% on your entire purchase in store and online.  To get the discount online use coupon code 28422531 at checkout and to get the discount in store sign up here to have the invite email to you.
• Looking to winterize your wardrobe? Save 25% off all regular priced items at RW & Co. Valid November 12, 2011 only. Excludes items ending in $0.95.
• Lemming something from the Body Shop? Now is the best time to grab it! Save 30% off your entire purchase at The Body Shop. Plus, free shipping on orders of $75 or more! Valid online only, from November 10-13, 2011.
• Save 40% off all bras at Aerie. Excludes clearance.
• Save 25% off your entire purchase at Abercrombie & Fitch. Valid online and in store. If you plan to shop online, enter promo code 10109 at checkout to get your discount.
• SportChek is having some great outerwear & footwear sales right now. Save 25% off winter jackets, pants & accessories. Save 50% off any Junior winter pant when you buy a Junior winter jacket. Buy one, get one 50% off all men’s & women’s footwear
• Receive a free sample of Juicy Couture fragrance with this printable coupon. Bring your coupon to the Juicy Couture fragrance counter at The Bay to receive your freebie. Valid until November 13, 2011.
• With coupon code RFD50, all sale items from Crocs.ca will be Buy One, Get One 50% off. Items in the sale section are already reduced by up to 60%, so there are some pretty good deals to be had!
• Jacob Canada has online shopping available now with free shipping on orders over $25. If that isn't enough, take an extra 30% off Sale Items. I've been wanting to try their nail polish for a while now and might jump on the chance!
• Skin79 North America is having a sale online only till November 30, 2011! Get 15-20% off selected products (prices as marked). Great time to buy if you've been wanting to jump on the BB Cream bandwagon.
• Reebok/Rockport Friends and Family Sale is also happening this weekend! Come in from today till Sunday, November 13, 2011 to receive an extra 40% off your entire bill! Promo excludes all Realflex footwear. Click here for which stores will be holding the sale. Also, feel free to print the image to bring in store, just in case.
  

The Warehouse Sales are ridiculous this weekend! Pick from these (or go to all!) to get some awesome Christmas shopping done for a fraction of the cost:

• Save up to 70% on men's, women's, and kids' apparel from brands such as Point Zero, N. Benisti, Blend, and Big It Up at the Point Zero Sample Sale!

    When: November 11-12, 2011
    Fri 10AM-8PM
    Sat 10AM-5PM
    Where: 160 Tycos Drive, Toronto, Ontario

• The Shiseido Warehouse Sale is a good place to find high-end cosmetics at bargain basement prices in the Toronto area. I'll be hitting this one up so if you're there, come say hi! I'll be the one with a hamster on her shoulder. (Oh, but Hammie says he refuses to queue in the cold so he's staying in my pocket. *pouts*)

    When: November 12-13, 2011
    Sat 9AM-5PM
    Sun 9AM-3PM
    Where: 303 Allstate Parkway, Markham, Ontario

• Save up to 75% on men, women, and kids apparel and footwear at this year's Geox Warehouse Sale in Vaughan.

    When: November 10-20, 2011
    Mon-Wed 11AM-7PM
    Sat-Sun 9AM-5PM
    Where: 361 Applewood Crescent, Concord, Ontario

• Get jewellery for as low as $3 at Vivah Jewellery Outlet Sale.

    When: November 11-26, 2011
    Mon-Fri 10AM-7PM
    Sat 11AM-5PM
    Where: 995 Finch Avenue West, Toronto, Ontario

• The Premium Retail Group Guess Warehouse Sale is another good sale if you're in the west end of the city.

    When: November 9-13, 2011
    Wed 10AM-8PM
    Thu-Fri 11AM-9PM
    Sat-Sun 11AM-7PM
    Where: International Centre, Hall 4. 6900 Airport Road. Mississauga, Ontario

• Tom's Place is holding a sale with unbelievable prices on men's and women's business attire. I have a buddy who's been talking about this for the longest time. He scored some awesome designer suits last year from brands like Ben Sherman, etc. Great time to grab a tux for any formal event you might have in the calendar!

    When: November 10-13, 2011
    Thu-Fri 11AM-8PM
    Sat 10AM-6PM
    Sun 11AM-6PM
    Where: 750 Spadina Avenue. Toronto, Ontario. 416-596-0297

That's a lot of shopping to do this weekend, eh? Well, go ahead and indulge! Happy shopping!

Truckload Tuesdays: Mail Happiness and Luck

*Defensive mode: On* Before anything, let me just say that this post does not in any way or form violate my currently imposed "No Buy". All the items below were purchased or ordered online prior to its imposition so I haven't broken any rules with what I'm going to show you today. *Defensive mode: Off*

Now that we have that out of the way, I recently got some mail love that I've been anxiously waiting for: Skin79 BB Creams! My heritage is Asian and as anyone who follows beauty products in Asia will know, BB cream (BB stands for beauty balm) is a must try/have product. It got so popular that they've started opening stores (both physical and online) in North America in an effort to garner a niche in the beauty market. Sephora just recently introduced Dr. Jart BB cream from Korea and Clinique and Boscia have come out with their own take. I wanted to try one of the more popular brands from Korea so when I found out that Skin79 ships to Canada, I HAD to try some!

I got the Oriental Gold BB Cream that came with a free gift: Oriental Gold Shimmering BB Cream! 

I got the EOS lip balm because of Mary. ;)

Out of the box: These were so reflective, it was a pain to photograph!

The BB cream cap comes with a lip and cheek tint while the shimmering kind works with a click brush mechanism similar to the Stila lip glosses, only much bigger.

I'm excited to do a review on these soon, but I want to keep using these for a longer time to see if my skin does improve as the claims suggest. Suffice to say that so far, I've really been enjoying these! I was also lucky enough to win one of the free Milani eyeliner packs that G at Nouveau Cheap gave away last month in partnership with Milani. I was beyond ecstatic; it was the first time I've ever won any giveaway! Hammie even did a little dance when we found out.

Couldn't have come at a better time. Been wanting to try these for the longest time!

If you see anything you're most interested to know more about, do let us know in the comments so we can prioritize them accordingly. Happy Tuesday!

Hammie says: Have you tried BB creams before? Don't forget to wear your poppy till Friday!

L'Oreal Owl's Night

Ever since I randomly got an owl necklace from Suzy Shier (it was on sale for $5!) and got a lot of compliments on it, I've started to have a thing for owls. Well, not entirely. I still think that if I saw one on a dark, Halloween night, I would definitely run away panicked like a headless chicken, screaming my head off. Assuming of course that all I'd have seen are two huge, round, gleaming eyes.  And if I were to hear a loud "hoot! hoot! hoot!", that will almost make me pee in my pants. Almost.

While what I have for you today won't cause any panic attacks or screaming hysteria, this unique color might very well make you pee in your pants in excitement.

Excited yet?

Indulge without the Splurge: Halloween Weekend 2011

Halloween is definitely right around the corner! Candy? Check. Decor? Check. Scary movie marathon? Goodness, please, no! I'm squeamish, I'll admit it. But squawk at me all you want, nothing is going to get me to watch a scary movie. Well, maybe if you promised me a lifetime supply of anything (and everything) from Sephora but let's not get into that. I've got some great deals you need to know about this weekend!

• Free shipping with any purchase over $40 at Yves Rocher with coupon code: YRFREESHIP. Best sellers on the site are also up to 50% off!
• Save up to 50% off on outerwear at Garage.ca! Free shipping over orders $75 and up, plus get an extra $10 off with coupon code: REDFLAGDEALS10 at check out.
• Save 40% off EyesLipsFace (ELF) Studio Make up with your purchase of $25 USD or more with coupon code: STUDIO. Offer valid till October 31, 2011.
• Canada.ArmaniExchange.com is offering an additional 40% off all sale items. Please note that they ship from US and the standard delivery charge is $18 which includes all duties and taxes.
• The Bay Days are here! Get 40% off Women's Outerwear and up to 50% off  Men's Brand Name Dress Shirts. Available both in-store and online. Shipping is free over online orders $99 and up.
• For a limited time, Jacob is offering 30% off all in-stock items, both in-store and online! Get free shipping with orders $75 and up. I just saw that they had nail polish, too! Intriguing.
• It's that time of the year again! With purchases $26.50 or more, get a free gift from Clinique at Sears valued at $70. The kit includes: Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Moisturizer SPF 20 (15mL), Liquid Face Soap Mild (30mL), Lash Doubling Mascara in Black (4mL), Different Lipstick in Different Grape (4mL), Long Last Glosswear SPF 15 in Air Kiss (2mL) and Soft Pressed Powder Blusher with Brush in New Clover (2g) all in a floral cosmetic case.
• Get a free 5-shade lip gloss compact from Lancome.ca with any purchase over $34 with code: LIPS11 until supplies last. Also get free shipping with any order with code: OCT11 until October 31, 2011.
• Get a free sample of Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair when you present this coupon at the Estee Lauder counter at the Bay. Valid till November 3, 2011.
• Get a free sample of Oscar de la Renta's new fragrance, Live in Love at the Bay with this coupon. Offer good till October 31, 2011.
• Save up to 50% off selected styles at Smart Set till October 30, 2011. Plus, get an additional 25% off on all pink sticker prices. Offer available both in-store and online.
• Shoppers Drug Mart is having another Bonus Points Redemption Weekend! 50,000 points = $100 off your bill (an extra $15) and 95,000 points = $200 off your bill (an extra $25) I heard the Quo by Orly sets have landed..
• The Body Shop has some awesome deals going on for a limited time! Take your pick from: Buy 3, get 2 free/ Buy 2, get 1 free/ Buy 1, get 1 50% off available both in store and online. This would be a great time to stock up on favorites! Note though that this excludes all travel items, hand cleanse gels, prepackaged gifts, gift cards, Love Your Body Memberships and charitable items. It may not be combined with any other offer. If fragrances are your thing, you may get a free tassle bag with a purchase of $25 upwards.
• Get 20% off your entire purchase both in-store and online at Bench Canada. Use coupon code: benchgift at online check out or print off this coupon for us in-store. Offer valid till October 31, 2011.
• Last but most definitely not least: the annual Esprit and Lacoste Warehouse Sale is on now till this weekend! Save up to 80% on Esprit clothing and accessories, as well as Lacoste footwear. Details are as follows:
• Thursday and Friday (October 27-28): 10am-9pm
• Saturday and Sunday (October 29-30): 10am-6pm
• Location: International Center-Hall 4, 6900 Airport Road, Mississauga, ON

Hammie says: Go ahead, Indulge! Happy Halloween!!!

Nina Ultra Pro Mossy Britches

Ever seen a nail polish color and knew you HAD to own it, by hook or by crook? First, it was Chanel Peridot, the one Chanel polish that *almost* made me break my self-imposed $10 maximum price per nail polish bottle. In the end, Hammie convinced me that $25 was just too much to spend on one nail polish when I could get four or more for the same price. (I've heard rumors that Hammie hails from the Hamstons but this is one sensible, penny pinching hamster so I don't think so!) Then, came Butter London's Wallis but at $14, it was still over my limit. These green/golds were killing me! Not even wearing Nubar Wildlife could kill the crazy lemmings from these two. So I hit the interwebs in search of something that might be similar (I was so far gone, I didn't even need a dupe) without killing my budget. This is what I found:

Look at that pretty!

Truckload Tuesdays: Drugstore (and more) Roundup from Across the Border

Last Thanksgiving, Mr. J and I decided to eschew expected traditions and set off on a very spontaneous trip that involved going south for the weekend.  We invited Hammie along but he said he had some elbow rubbing to do at his parents' Thanksgiving dinner party at the Hamstons. I wasn't even aware that he was so well-connected; that surely explained his good taste with the whole "hamsters of the same fur, smoosh together" sort of bit.

We decided to go on the Friday, booked the hotel on Saturday and left on Sunday. Yeah, we're crazy like that. ;) Good thing the gorgeous weather held up all throughout and made the drive easy. We left at awkward hours too, so we didn't really encounter any traffic to and fro. Lucky for us, Columbus Day sales coincided with the long weekend so of course we did a spot of shopping! We also did the drugstore rounds in hopes of finding products I'd seen on blogs that haven't yet made their way up north. In this, self control was a must! I didn't want to pay high border duties and since we stayed overnight, we were allowed at least $50 worth of un-taxable shopping for each of us so I had to make sure I stayed well under $50. But that's enough rambling and on with the show!

Ta-daaaaah!

Meet the Polishes!
Clockwise: Butter London No More Waitey Katie, Butter London Wallis, Confetti Ice Ice Baby, CQ Rustic Dream, Scherer Chameleon in Blue Sky, L'Oreal Owl's Night (LE), Butter London All Hail the Queen

 My first Butter London triplets. Wee!

Drugstore duochromes. Mmmhmm.

Project Runway inspired polish and duochrome glitter.

Two (Salma Hayek's Nuance) pods and a (NYX) lippy.

Left to right: Neutral Eyeshadow, NYX soft matte lip cream in Tokyo and Warm Lip Quad
Partially open pods!

I was very pleased with these. The Butter London polishes were on sale, buy 2 get 1 free! I ended up paying only about $9 for each. Well within my self-imposed per bottle price tag limit of $10. It was so hard to choose just three! Bluey was begging to come home with me, too. *cries* I shall return, Bluey..! The Scherer polishes were a very pleasant surprise! I didn't know you could get duochromes at the drugstore. I was always under the impression that they were usually hard to find. If only they'd travel further up north though.. We'll have to see how good these chameleons are in the coming posts. I picked up the $2 Confetti polish because it was blue glitter. And the name made me giggle: Ice Ice Baby. Little did I know that it was also a duochrome! I did a nail wheel swatch and it shifts from teal to blue. Gorgeous. My only regret? That I didn't get more of those glitters! The L'Oreal polish was limited edition from the Project Runway collection so you know I had to get it. It was the one that caught my eye the most. The rest were easily dupe-able so I skipped out on the others. Can't wait to put this one on!

I've been wanting to swatch these since I got them but the sun's on vacay and I'm fairly certain the sunlight photos for these will be gorgeous and do them more justice. So I'm torn between just going ahead with it and just updating the posts with the sunlight photos when the sun finally shows its face again. 

What do you think? Would you want to see swatches and reviews on the makeup, too? Any here that you'd love to see first?

Indulge without the Splurge: 13 October 2011

I was supposed to post one of these sooner this week but things got quite hectic from the spontaneous weekend trip to Mr. J's birthday. The coming weekend should be all the more interesting as we're having friends over for his (belated) birthday dinner so I'll be slaving in the kitchen for that. Thought I'd gotten out of it when we decided to skip out on the huge Thanksgiving feast for a weekend trip instead. But you don't want to hear about my ranting so on with the deals!

• Buy 1 get 1 half off on all regular priced Essie and Misa nail polish at Trade Secrets till Octber 28, 2011! This will come in handy for the Misa Nail Art Challenge. (P.S. Hammie tells me that the OPI Muppets Collection is out today.)
• Fruits & Passion is holding a buy 1 get 1 40% off on all merchandise for their promo: Wednesdays Bear Fruit. If you missed it yesterday, don't despair! This one runs on Wednesdays including October 19, October 26 and November 2, 2011, in stores only.
• Buffalo David Bitton has an additional 30% off already reduced items for a limited time! Unfortunately, not valid at liquidation stores or online.
• Northern Reflections has up to 50% off select styles and 40% off sweaters. Perfect for dreary and slowly cooling weather. Brr!
• Start a chain of sharing Kleenex! Send a pack your family and friends and get one, too! Quite timely for those nasty cough and colds brought about by the changing weather.
• Get a free deluxe sample of a mini Rouge Dior lipstick with any foundation or complexion product at the Bay with this coupon.
• Holt Renfrew has a great Clinique gift with purchase of $35 or more available from October 14-23, 2011 while supplies last. Included in the gift are: Vitamin C Lip Smoothis, Antioxidant Lip Colour, Color compact with eyeshadow and blush, mascara, a trio of make up brushes, travel sized make up remover, moisturizer and cleanser in a floral cosmetics bag. Available in stores only and limit of one gift per customer.
• Murale has an awesome Fab and Free promo going on. Spend over $100 in store and get $200 worth of beauty products, free!
• The Bay is also offering a Lancome gift with purchase of $34 and more, till November 6 while supplies last and limit of one gift per customer. While the offer is valid in store and online, if you buy in stores, you recieve a gift bad and your choice of three treatment products and four makeup products with an estimated value of up to $183. Purchasing online will give you a 7-item gift with an estimated value of up to $124.
• Coach Factory Outlet has another great coupon: an additional 30% off on already reduced prices! Great for those shopping for early Christmas presents or just as a treat for surviving the week.
• Save an additional 25% off at Abercrombie & Fitch both in store and online until October 16, 2011, excluding redline items as those have been marked down an additional 40% already. Use code: 10149 at check out for online purchases.
• Le Chateau wants you to buy select blazers and coordinates to instantly save $50. Blazers must be priced $150 or higher. Promo is available in store and online. Use coupon code: WORKWEAR at check out.
• RW&Co. is offering 25% off outerwear, including all winter coats, jackets, hats, gloves and scarves! Minimum purchase of $78, before taxes.
• Plan ahead for Beautylicious at Bloor-Yorkville! These value packages and services from high end salons and spas book up fast so better scout the offers and find what best fits your needs and budget. Price ranges from $25, $50, $75 and $125. This is a great time to try more expensive salons that you normally wouldn't! Beautylicious runs from October 27 to November 6.

Don't forget to check the freebies and giveaways on the left, right under Hammie!  Dove Nourishing Oil and Jergens Overnight Fix are the most recent.

Indulge without the Splurge: Thanksgiving Weekend 2011

Happy (early) Thanksgiving, Everyone! Lots of great things happening on the weekend and I can't wait for the work week to end. Apparently, a lot of retailers feel the same. I've got tons of amazing deals and steals to maximize your Thanksgiving weekend shopping, even on a budget.

• Yves Rocher has their entire selection at 50% off till October 11, 2011! If that's not enough reason to shop, they're also offering Free Shipping and Free Samples with your order of $20 of more with coupon code: FSHIP20. With the discounts, $20 will go a long way! Best time to try something from them if you haven't already.
• Aldo is offering 10% off your purchase from now till Thanksgiving with promo code: THANKS11 for use online or this printable newsletter for use in store. Boots season is coming up..!
• Save 30% off your purchases from Forever 21 on the long weekend! If you're shopping online, don't forget that all orders over $60 gets you free shipping as well.
• Kiehl's Canada is celebrating Thanksgiving weekend with free shipping and a 30mL Ultimate Strength Hand Salve with any purchase using promo code: GIVING. I love this hand cream! This will definitely come in handy as the cold months set in. Promo ongoing now till October 11, 2011, 3am EST.
• Gap has up to 50% off everything till October 10, 2011! Remember that you get free shipping on all orders over $50 and you can combine purchases to total $50+ from their sister stores, Old Navy and Banana Republic.
• Cake Beauty has the Satin Sugar Hair and Body Refreshing Powder at 40% till October 8, 2011. Just use coupon code: dryspell at check out.
• Get 40% off any regular priced item at Ricki's till tomorrow, October 8, 2011 with coupon code: SHIPCT4. Use this coupon if you prefer to shop in store.
• Stocking up on lingerie? La Senza has a Facebook offer that takes 50% off any regular priced item from today till October 9, 2011. Get an additional 10% off with your Prestige card membership! Update: Free shipping for the long weekend in Canada and US ground shipping!
• Not to be outdone, La Vie en Rose has a 2 for 1 sale on bras, sleepwear, men's, swimwear and accessories for a limited time.
• Aerie is offering an additional 50% off clearance items and free shipping! Use coupon code: 82476531 at check out. Promo runs till October 10, 2011.
• American Eagle is also offering an additional 50% off clearance items and free shipping till October 10, 2011. To get your discount, just enter promo code: 82576531.
• Save up to 70% off at Aeropostale from now till October 10, 2011, in store only. This promotion excludes markdown items and fragrances. You can also receive a $10 gift card with every $40 spent.
• Le Chateau is giving you a gift this Thanksgiving of a $25 coupon towards any regular priced top that is at least $50 before the discount is applied.

Whew! That's a LOT! Now, don't forget about the two warehouse sales going on this weekend as well, the Puma Warehouse Sale and the American Apparel Warehouse Sale. Plan ahead and get there as early as you possibly can!
Hammie says: Happy Weekend and Happy Turkey Day! Go ahead, indulge!

Indulge without the Splurge: 6 October 2011

We've been having some good luck with the weather gods this week! Lots of wonderful sunshine to combat the past weekend's iffy gray weather. Here are a few other happy thoughts to get you through to Friday!

• Suzy Shier Canada wants you to do some shopping! Get 30% off your entire purchase in store and online. The bad news is it can't be combined with any other offer, including the 20% off new Prestige membership discount. The good news is the Suzy Shier Outlet store is holding a mega blowout sale with items as low as $1! Lots of discounts all around. Both promos run from October 6-10, 2011.
• Danier is holding its Fall Clearout Sale with jackets at half price! Offer good till October 9, 2011.
• Get 25% off Eau de Toilette fragrances both online and in store when you pay with your MasterCard at Fruits & Passion. Offer runs till October 9, 2011.
• Mark's Work Warehouse is offering 30% off men's and women's regular priced outerwear this weekend! The sale begins tomorrow, October 7, 2011 and runs all the way till Sunday, October 9, 2011.
• Save 20% off your purchase of $100 or more at Addition Elle Canada with promo code: AE20100 tomorrow, October 7, 2011 only. Unfortunately, this is an online only promotion. Best to look for your top picks today so you're ready to go tomorrow!
• Get a free sample of Yves Saint-Laurent L'Homme Libre fragrance. Just fill out the form here and wait for delivery! Unless they're actual perfume samples, I like to place these fragrance samples in smelly shoes.
• Get an additional 30% off already reduced items at a Coach Factory Outlet! Print out this coupon for use till October 16, 2011. Great for some early Christmas shopping or just a little reward for a week well done.
• For the whole month of October, 100% of all proceeds from EyesLipsFace (ELF) glossy glosses in Twinkle Pink and Wild Watermelon are to be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation! This is a cause close to my heart. If you're in need or on the look out for new pink glosses, these are amazing and guilt-free purchases!
• ClearlyContacts.ca is having its Thanksgiving Sale from now till October 11, 2011 with their entire inventory of glasses at $38 + shipping & taxes! That's including some of the designer glasses from Ray Ban, Fendi and Gucci. I think some prescription sunglasses are in order.. For the contacts wearers, not to fret! They've also got you covered with free shipping and $10 off your purchase of $179 or more with coupon code: TGCONTACTS.
• Another warehouse sale to look forward to! (Thanks to Sparkled Beauty for the head's up!) The American Apparel warehouse sale is on this weekend with deep discounts as much as 90% off. This can be popular to definitely plan ahead! Details are as follows:
• Sale goes on from October 6-10, 2011. From 9am to 9pm.
• Location is CNE Direct Energy Centre, Heritage Court, 100 Princes' Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario

Lots of great warehouse sales going on this weekend so if you're planning to go to one or both, make sure to plan ahead! Parking (or lack of) and the long queues can be horrible but all worth the $$$ you save. Best you carpool and have a designated driver so you won't have to worry about the parking, and make sure to go there early! Even when you think it's early enough, go even earlier. Trust.

Indulge without the Splurge: 5 October 2011

More great deals today!

• Free shipping at Lise Watier with coupon code: FREE00 till October 10th!
• Buy 3, get 3 FREE at Bath and Bodyworks, also till October 10th!
• More free shipping from Forever21 with coupon code: LOULOU from October 7-14, 2011. Great time to stock up on sweaters for the cooling weather!
• When you "like" Bootlegger Canada on Facebook, get a coupon for 25% off any regular price extended size jean. Print off the coupon to use in store, or use promo code: B25XJEAN to shop online. Promo valid till October 26, 2011.
• Save 30% off any single top at Northern Reflections with this printable coupon in store. Valid till October 9, 2011 and on regular priced items only.
• Get $2 off any Maybelline Eye Studio Product with this coupon.
• Doing some early Christmas shopping? H&M is offering a 25% off coupon any item from the Men's Department. Valid till October 16, 2011.
• The Puma Warehouse Sale is going on this weekend, from October 6-October 10 (VIP day)! The details are as follows:
• Thursday, October 6: open noon-6pm
• Friday, October 7: open 9am-9pm
• Saturday, October 8: open 10am-6pm
• Sunday, October 9: open 10am-6pm
• Monday, October 10: open 10am-6pm
• Location: International Centre, Hall 4 6900 Airport Road, Mississauga, ON L4V 1E9

Happy Indulging!

NYC In A New York Minute in Spring Street

We, here at Polished Indulgence, believe that indulging and being polished and put together doesn't have to mean spending a lot of money. There are a lot of great alternatives to high end brands and their offerings. A high price tag doesn't necessarily mean a better quality product. Half the time, you're paying for the brand. Case in point: L'Oreal Group of Companies. Their consumer line includes Garnier, L'Oreal Paris and Maybelline New York. Each has their own niche and fairly affordable prices. Then you have their luxury brands among which include Lancome, Giorgio Armani and YSL Beaute. Ever heard of the L'Oreal Infallible Loose Eyeshadow being very similar to the Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill Silk Eyeshadow? Same parent company. Now, I'm not saying they're exactly the same, but I am stressing the fact that you CAN get a similar product without breaking the bank. Huge cosmetic companies usually structure themselves so that they can appeal to both low and high price point consumers to maximize profit. So, why pay them more when you can get something similar for less?

That's exactly what NYC In A New York Minute in Spring Street is all about. It's a great cheery red orange shade that dries fast and shiny even without top coat for only a couple of bucks. How can you go wrong with that?

Just what the nail doctor ordered for dreary Fall days.

Revlon Facets of Fuschia

I'll be honest. I'm not a big fan of black nail polish. Sure, it's edgy and classic, like the LBD (that's "little black dress" if you've lived under a rock all this time) but it's just so...dark. I do like vampy colors that are dark, like navy or blood red, just not full on black. Call me biased but it could very well have been because my mom used to always say black nails reminded her of dead nails. Not a very flattering thought, really. Unless you're a zombie.

When I picked up Carbonite, I ended up getting one other polish that caught my eye. I think I might have found the one black polish that'll make me change my mind.

Very rock chic, no?