September 9, 2010
What We’re Doing This Weekend: CollegeFest!

This weekend, the Postabon team is heading up to Boston to attend CollegeFest.  Held at the Hynes Convention Center, CollegeFest attracts more than 15,000 college students from the Boson area during this two-day event.  During the event, these students get to enjoy live music, celebrity appearances and free stuff, as well as meet cool companies - like Postabon!  If you are attending CollegeFest or know someone who may be attending, encourage him or her to swing by booth 811 to grab a free Postabon pen and enter to win an iPod Touch.

Since we have college students on the brain, we couldn’t help but think it might be time for another student discount roundup.  In addition to these retailers, you can save additionally at the following locations with a valid student ID:

Where do you show your student ID to save?  Share your tips on Postabon!

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Filed under: Shopping Student Discounts 
July 14, 2010
We Tried It: Free Cologne with Foursquare Check-In

Deals on Foursquare in my experience have been a bit of an urban legend.  I’ve yet to experience free drinks for mayors (maybe because my mayorship history involves the M34 bus), but when one of our Postabon members, Yaelleah, told me about how you can get a free $75 bottle of cologne when you check-in on Foursquare, I may have screamed, “Pump the brakes.”  She explained the deal was at the Coach Men’s Store on Bleecker, and I decided I had to see it to believe it.

Before heading over to the Coach Men’s Store, I decided to look it up on Foursquare to see if this deal was still going on.  In the top right hand corner on Foursquare, it said there was a special here, and once I clicked on this message, it said to show it to a sales associate to receive an exclusive gift. 

We headed over to the store, checked in and asked the sales associates for our gift.  We were handed a short questionnaire to fill out, where we provided our names, email addresses and mailing addresses and then we received a 3.4 Fl Oz bottle of Coach for Men fragrance.  We asked how long the promo is going on, and they said it depends when Coach takes it off Foursquare.  Our advice - check your phone before you head over to see if the special offer box is in the top right hand corner.

Know of any other great Foursquare promotions?  Share them with us on Postabon!

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Filed under: Shopping Free Foursquare NYC 
June 25, 2010
Get Beach Body Ready

In case you haven’t been outside lately, or have been too busy to notice - it is beach season people!!  That’s right, so grab the sunglasses, sandals and bathing suits and get yourself outdoors!

Wait, what’s that? You aren’t prepared for summer? You lack the proper essentials of beach season because you have been swamped at work, cooped up indoors in an office? No worries. Postabon can help you get ready real fast, and cheap. 

First things first - lose the winter weight. Mid City Gym is equipped with everything you need to get fit. Right now the gym is offering first time members a 30-day trial for only $19.95.  Hit the gym enough over the next 30 days, and you’ll be ready for the Hamptons by August.

Next, whiten up your smile. The only thing better than a good body on the beach, is a shining smile. Central Park Dental Spa is running a summer special to help you out - 50% off teeth whitening.  Everyone knows how expensive the process can be, so do yourself or everyone else a favor and take advantage of this offer.

Step 3 – Bathing suits and sunglasses. Nothing gives you more confidence on the beach than a new bathing suit and sunglasses, and what better way to have them than at 20% off. Postabon has your 20% off Macy’s coupon, also known as the Macy’s Wow Pass, so use it as much as you wish. 

Last but not least, time to fit yourself for a brand new of pair sandals. American Eagle is running a special on sandals. Pretty original too!  Buy one pair, get the second half off. Ok fine, not so original, but still totally awesome. While you are at AE be sure to get some T-shirts, tanks, and polos, because they are 50% off!

Know another sale or promotion going on that can help you get beach body ready?  Share it with us at Postabon! 

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Filed under: Etc. Etc. Shopping 
June 24, 2010
We Went: Tory Burch Sample Sale Insanity

This past Tuesday morning, if you were female and lived or worked in Manhattan, chances are you were at the Tory Burch sample sale.  At least that’s what it seemed like when we took a trip down to its location in Midtown and saw the line stretched well past the block (261 W 37th Street). This ageless brand had women’s heads reeling during the opening of this sale to the public and upon entrance, one could consider it to be a bit of a mad house.  

Younger girls headed straight to the handbags and shoes, while the older women ransacked the clothing, holding piles and piles of clothes in hand. Bags were cute clutches and fashionable totes ranging from $99 to $250. Shoes ranged from gladiator jellies to embellished high heels priced $65 to $195, and clothes started at $65 for a basic tee-shirt, with all items being final sale.

Before anyone could enter the door, each person had to take a number.  This would be the order that each person was allowed into the shoe area. Conveniently, there was a glass case in place that showcased the styles of shoes which were for sale.  Surprisingly, there was not a huge selection and the most sought after shoes with the Tory Burch logo were nowhere to be found. Women crowded around the waiting area, eagerly awaiting for their number to be called.

Sizes in shoes were going quickly and bag styles flew off the wall. There was a lot of clothing in stock, but if you are still dying for a bag or a pair of shoes, word on the street is that there are shipments throughout the week, so there will be more merchandise.  Furthermore, we received word that there have been additional markdowns on shoes, ready-to-wear merchandise and accessories. So if you haven’t gotten a chance to head over yet, don’t throw in the towel yet! Now that the initial rush is over, leave your knee and elbow pads at home, and head over to the sale through Friday because there is a really good chance that you’ll find that perfect Tory Burch piece for a bargain!

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Filed under: Fashion Shopping Sample Sale 
June 10, 2010
Amazing Pieces at Charlotte Ronson Sample Sale

If you’ve ever wanted to snag beautifully crafted designs and unique pieces of rising designer, Charlotte Ronson, then you may want to consider checking out her sample sale now through Friday (1071 6th Ave between 41st and 42nd, suite 301). The sale was housed in a aesthetically pleasing building and as we entered, a man directed us to the third floor. There were signs on the wall directing us to the room right around the corner. Since it was the second day of the sale, we weren’t sure what we were going to witness – would it be filled with tons of people?  Luckily, the sale was not too overwhelming, but had a steady flow of people.

The crowd consisted of young, fashionable women, and it seemed like everyone had familiarity with the designer. Everyone was polite to each other, without any pushing or shoving (which was great)! There were 5 racks of clothing, consisting of mostly dresses and tops. Prices ranged from $15 to $90.  Mostly knitwear and damaged items (which were truly damaged) were priced at $15.  Elaborate dresses were $70, with shoes priced at $30 and $50.  The dress here in this picture was marked down from $180 to $30.

There were basic tees marked down to $30 from $125 which is a steal. Almost everything on the rack were small sizes, with a medium and size 8 as the largest sizes.  Still, employees were able to find additional merchandise for patrons in the back.  Shoes, however, were a bit limited in sizes.

Customers are allowed to try on clothes but be warned the “fitting room” is a bathroom with one extremely dim light. Several people were in the room at a time, meaning it did get rather stuffy and uncomfortable. Customers are not allowed to make returns so you must choose wisely. While I didn’t purchase anything, I found the sale to be pretty good.  If you are sick of wearing items from chain stores and want something chic and unique to update your wardrobe, I recommend heading down to this sale now through Friday, from 10-7. Happy Shopping!

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Filed under: NYC Sample Sale Shopping 
May 18, 2010
The Value of a College ID

Remember that song back in the 90s, “Everybody’s Free (to Wear Sunscreen)” where Baz Luhrmann just spouted out life advice?  Well, if I could offer you one piece of advice it would be to never, ever throw out your college ID.  Let’s be honest, the photo on it may make you cringe - the picture may have been taken before you discovered the beauty of a hair straightening-iron or before you stepped foot in the gym, but this ID is the ticket to tons of savings.

If you are lucky, your college or university will have failed to issue a date on your ID (thanks, Marist).  As a result, you’ll be able to flash that ID for the next decade of your life and encounter tons of savings (I’ve been flashing mine since 2003 without a problem).  

Topshop offers 10% off on merchandise (excluding gift cards) to customers with valid student IDs, according to Postabon member danag.  Simply show your ID at checkout and you’ll receive your savings.  Better yet, the UK stores also honor this deal so remember to pack your ID if you travel overseas.  Keep in mind that Europeans are very friendly when it comes to honoring the student ID especially at attractions, so your ID should be the second thing you pack, after your passport. (478 Broadway between Broome St and Grand St). 

Enjoy shopping at Club Monaco? Postabon member christinad387 informed us that you can save 20% on regular-priced merchandise at Club Monaco by simply showing your student ID.  This deal is valid only at North America locations. (multiple locations).

Still have your old .edu email address?  Ralph Lauren Rugby offers exclusive savings for college students.  Simply register your .edu email address and you’ll receive a 15% off code for online shopping.  Don’t remember the password to your college email address?  Head over to Rugby in-person with your student ID card to receive 15% off instead. Thanks to frontpaige for sharing this deal with us! (99 University Place between 11th and 12th Streets). 

Finally, if you are a fan of Banana Republic, remember to whip out your student ID next time you are in-store, according to frontpaige.  You’ll receive 15% off by showing your ID (note, this deal is not offered online or at the outlet stores). If you have misplaced your college ID but are a teacher with a teacher ID, you’ll still be able to take advantage of this discount. (multiple locations). 

Know of any other great places to use your student ID?  Share them with Postabon!


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Filed under: student discounts shopping teacher discounts 
May 3, 2010
Mother’s Day Gift Ideas!

Whenever I think about shopping for Mother’s Day (newsflash – it’s this Sunday), I think of my friends Jon and Dan, and their quest in high school to find the perfect Mother’s Day gift.  Ultimately, they ended up at the dollar store in Connecticut’s Meriden Mall, and both decided to purchase bird houses as gifts – for $1.  On Mother’s Day, their moms couldn’t stop gushing how great this gift was, and how they shouldn’t have spent so much money on them.

If Jon and Dan’s story taught us anything, it is that you don’t have to spend a ton of money on mom to find her a gift that she loves.  Luckily, there are a ton of great sales out there this Mother’s Day, and at the very least, many stores are offering promotions that if you buy a gift card, you’ll get a gift for yourself.  Here’s a sampling of just some of the deals we’ve seen lately on Postabon…

For the Shoe Lover:  If you know your mom’s shoe size and her favorite
styles (my mom:  size 5.5, likes anything I’d refuse to wear, and yes that’s her on the right), check out Bloomingdale’s spring shoe sale (multiple locations).   Now through Sunday, save 25-30% off spring shoes.  Appreciate a good deal but don’t want to risk guessing mom’s shoe size?  DSW has a great deal where if you spend $50 on a gift card, you’ll receive a $10 gift card that you can use on yourself between May 24 and June 7 - perfect for summer sandals (multiple locations).

For the Handbag Obsessed:  If mom loves labels, designers and bags, check out the Botkier sample sale that kicks off Thursday.  Handbags, wallets and shoes will be marked 50-70% off.  And if you tweet a picture of you and your mom to @botkierbags or post to their Facebook page, you’ll get an additional percentage off (60 Mercer Street at Broome).  Mom doesn’t care about labels and confuses Guess with Coach?  Then check out the Macy’s sale instead.  This Mother’s Day sale has prices marked down from 20-50% (151 W 34th St, between Broadway and 7th).  

For the Mom who Likes to Maintain Her Look: Manicures, pedicures and a good haircut are important to any lady.  If your mom likes to get her nails done, why not treat her to a trip to the salon the next time she’s in New York?  Blow, the New York Blow Dry Bar, is offering a free pedicure (a $35 value!) to anyone who buys mom a $50 gift card this Mother’s Day (342 W. 14th St, between 8th and 9th).  I may just buy a gift card for myself (sorry, mom).

Know of any other good Mother’s Day sales?  Share them with us at Postabon! 

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Filed under: shopping Mother's Day Sale free Gift Card 
April 22, 2010
Shopping Specials!

Hello springtime and hello deals!  This week has been filled with fabulous shopping deals all across New York City.  Whether you are looking for a sample sale or store coupons, our users have posted some discounts that make us feel like we’re shopping at the Woodbury Commons Outlets, rather than in Manhattan.

For the Coupon Clippers

Saks 5th Avenue:  You don’t have to be Jill Zarin of the Real Housewives of New York City to shop at Saks.  Thanks to a tip from Socially Superlative, Saks 5th Avenue is having its annual Friends and Family sale.  Now through Sunday, enjoy 20% off, with 10% off beauty and fragrances. (611 5th Avenue, between 49th and 50th St).

Macy’s: If Macy’s is more in your price range, check out the store’s Great Give Back sale going on through Sunday.  According to user jboyaval, there will be a wide range of markdowns, from 25-85% off.  Pick up a copy of Metro or AM NY to get a savings pass that will give you an extra 10-15% off.  (151 W. 34th St, between 6th Avenue and 7th Avenue).

For the Sample Sale Socialites

New York Dog:  When shopping for yourself, don’t forget about your
favorite pooch.  New York Dog is moving, and everything must go!  Now through Saturday, enjoy great savings on carriers, collars, leashes and more.  Sale runs from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. (133 W. 25th Street, between 8th and 9th).

Out with the Old, in with the New

Origins:  User Ricebird of NYC Recession Diary shared this deal with us.  All you have to do is take a  bottle of face wash (used or new) to Origins, and they will swap it for a free full- size version of its high-performance cleaner (a $20 value).  Don’t have facewash at your desk?  Pick up a local drugstore’s brand and bring it in.  (Various locations in Flatiron, Upper West Side, Macy’s Herald Square, Grand Central and Soho participating).

H&M:  Purchase a cute springtime outfit for your child (or niece or nephew) at 20% off.  Simply bring in gently worn children’s clothing, and you’ll receive 20% off any childrenswear purchase.  Don’t have readily accessible children’s clothes?  Ladies, check your drawer of t-shirts.  Chances are you’ll find a youth large.  Thanks, user saleinfo, for alerting us to this deal!  (Various locations).  

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Filed under: Shopping Sample Sales Free 
April 16, 2010
It’s a Madhouse at the Zac Posen Pop-Up Shop

Earlier this evening, we headed over to the Zac Posen for Target Collection pop-up shop on 34th and 8th.  This 24 hour party kicked off at 11 p.m., and will last until 11 p.m. tonight.  When we arrived at 11 p.m. on Thursday, the line stretched half-way down 8th Ave, and there had to be at least 300-400 women in line.  I didn’t mind the wait though, as I was entertained by the projector that flashed images of celebrities who experienced the collection earlier today.  Selma Blair and Ginnifer Goodwin were just some of the celebs there. Once it was 11:10 or so, the line started to pick up, with security letting about 60 people in every few minutes.  

We were inside by 11:25 and it was sheer madness.  I first made my wayRacked are emptied! around the first floor.  The center of the first floor had a dance floor, a bar to one side and a live band playing.  Clothing was presented on racks all around the outside of the room.  This collection consisted of shirts, bathing suits, jackets, skirts and dresses (from what I was able to see on the racks).  To my surprise though, within 25 minutes of being in the store, most of the racks were emptied.  Ladies were running around with their arms filled with clothes, hoping to get a coveted spot in front of the mirror.  Obviously there was another line for this spot, and I watched as girls tried dresses over their clothes (guaranteed that when they get it home, it won’t fit, and will be on ebay).  I noticed a floral dress that I liked on a rack in a corner (see it below), picked it up, thought about taking a photo of it, and by the time I put it back on the rack to get my camera out, someone already snatched it.  You really had to be aggressive - think back to when you played Park & Rec basketball and learned how to box out.  You had to box out other shoppers, otherwise, you were going to leave empty-handed.

I made my way up to the top floor, which had a great view of the dance floor and bustling shoppers.  Again, this was filled with customers, all in a line to try on clothes.  I’m honestly not sure if it led to a dressing room or another mirror, but this line took up most of the upstairs and you would continuously hear friends say to one another, “Maybe I’ll just bring it home and try it on.”  Most of the racks upstairs were bare as well.

As I made my way back downstairs, I circled the floor one last time and saw that some of the racks had been replenished.  Unfortunately, I wasn’t the only one who noticed this.  I saw this beautiful red leather coat (priced at $199.99), and I began to unzipper it to examine the inside, daydreaming about how I could wear this with all my black dresses and shirts…aka my entire wardrobe.  Keep in mind that there were 6 other red leather coats on the rack, one of which was in the same size.  I didn’t think I needed to be boxing out, but as I pulled the zipper on the coat down, a hand reached over me. A woman a good fifteen years older, grabbed the coat and walked away.  She didn’t even apologize as I gave her the look of death.  

At that point, I knew it was time for me to go.  But as I walked out, I did notice this little red dress (also available in black).  This was one of my favorite items of the night and it was priced at $79.99.  With wedding season coming up, it would make the perfect dress for an elegant wedding.  Surprisingly, a lot of these remained on the rack and no one was going too crazy over them.  For a more affordable, yet similar dress, you may want to try H&M’s Garden Collection. 

As I walked out of the shop without a bag in hand, a rarity when I step foot near anything Target related, there wasn’t even a line outside the store.  If you want to check out the shop, I suggest you go sometime between now and 6 a.m.  Otherwise, remember to bring your patience with you.

  

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Filed under: Zac Posen Target NYC Pop-Up Shop Shopping Fashion Designers