Share a shopping secret?

I’ve stumbled upon a a shopping sweet spot.

It’s the place I go to find items I can’t find at other locations in Charlotte. And, apparently not many people know it’s there, since I can always find what I’m looking for and it’s never crowded.

This isn’t the first time I’ve wanted to blab and to keep a fab secret at the same time. I’ve had an aesthetician and been a regular at a few nail salons that were so beloved I didn’t want to share their information outside my circle of friends.

Have you found yourself in this situation? What do you do?

Free Friday: Final freebie

This week's giveaway is more than $250 worth of Shu Uemura anti-aging products: Smoothing anti-wrinkle emulsion, radiance boosting lotion and lifting anti-wrinkle essence.

Welcome to the last Free Friday. The answer to last week's give away is Betsey Johnson. Here are the rules for entry:

• E-mail your answer to each week's question to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your answer must be in the subject field of the e-mail.
• Include your name and phone number in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• Correct answers to the question posed each week will be entered into a random drawing.
• One entry per e-mail address, please. Only the winner will be contacted.
• Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.
  

Here is this week's question: Who was named the winner of the CW reality show "Stylista" earlier this week?

When you care enough to hit send

My love of the stylish snark dispensed by Daily Candy is no secret. But it has been elevated to a near-obscene level by hilarious DC e-cards available on someecards.com (click on the Daily Candy link in the left-side menu).

Happy holidays!

Scout & Molly's in Charlotte

Inside the new boutique Scout & Molly's at the Morrison development in South Charlotte.

The Morrison development at Colony and Sharon roads has a new boutique in the mix: Scout & Molly's.

The Charlotte location, owned by Megan Tee, is the third Scout & Molly boutique (existing stores are in Chapel Hill and Raleigh).

Among the lines available: Yoana Baraschi, Akiko, Tibi, Linea Pelle and a slew of others.

The well-appointed space is further complimented by the chillest shop dog I've ever met: Marley, Tee's rescue dog.

LISTEN UP! I'll be on Charlotte Talks with Mike Collins at 9 a.m. Tuesday to talk green Christmas gifts. Tune in at 90.7 FM or online.

Wry Baby Sample Sale

I had to restrain myself at the Wry Baby sample sale ... I may still go back for more.

Hip baby gear company Wry Baby operates from the second floor of a restored building in downtown Mooresville, in the Lake Norman area.

The super-creative, laugh-out-loud products from Dave and Kelly Sopp have been featured Cookie, Newsweek, People and InStyle, among others. They've got their bibs, T-shirts, books and toys in a a variety of retail outlets, including Barneys New York.

This weekend, they're having their "First Annual Super Funtastic Sample Sale," with toys, accessories and clothes up to 90 percent off. The deals are fab -- I checked out the scene Friday afternoon and walked with a bag full of holiday gifts for wee ones on my list.

Sale details: 10a-5p Saturday; Noon-3p Sunday; 104 N. Broad St. (above Ye Olde Mantel).

Free Friday: Fragrance fun

This week's give away, with a retail value of more than $170, includes a Hanae Mori Magical Moon fragrance set, Yves Saint Laurent Elle fragrance and Shea Terra Organics pink guava pomegranate salt scrub.

Welcome to Free Friday. Every Friday through Dec. 19, I'll be giving away free beauty products, accessories and fragrance.

The winner of last week's give away is Crissy Huffstickler. The answer we were looking for is Thakoon. Here are the rules for entry:

• E-mail your answer to each week's question to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your answer must be in the subject field of the e-mail.
• Include your name and phone number in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• Correct answers to the question posed each week will be entered into a random drawing.
• One entry per e-mail address, please. Only the winner will be contacted.
• Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.
  

Here is this week's question: Which designer ends each fashion show by doing a cartwheel on the runway?

Free Friday: Fashion Forward

This week's prize pack includes the Too Faced Mini Starry Eyed Liner Set, Mini Mirror Mirror Gloss Set and The Jewelry Box Pink Diamond Edition as well as a bottle of Stella McCartney Velvet edition eau de parfum. The retail value of the package is more than $160.

Welcome to the fifth Free Friday. Every Friday through Dec. 19, I'll be giving away free beauty products, accessories and fragrance.

The winner of last week's giveaway is Betsy Ewing. The answer we were looking for is Marc Jacobs. Here are the rules for entry:

• E-mail your answer to each week's question to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your answer must be in the subject field of the e-mail.
• Include your name and phone number in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• Correct answers to the question posed each week will be entered into a random drawing.
• One entry per e-mail address, please. Only the winner will be contacted.
• Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.
  

Here is this week's question: Which designer, favored by Michelle Obama, is designing a line for Target that will be in stores on Dec. 25?

Fierce and fashion around town

Designer Christian Siriano posed for pictures and showed his line at today's (Dec. 4) benefit for Dress for Success Charlotte at Coplon's. The "Project Runway" season 4 winner chatted with the more than 60 attendees of the event and dished on his upcoming shoe and handbag collection at Payless. Read more about the event in next Thursday's Style section.

News and fashion happenings around Charlotte:

• The Michael Kors store at SouthPark mall opened today (Dec. 4), according to a press release. The store, near the Neiman Marcus/Nordstrom wing, is the first Michael Kors store in North Carolina.
• There will be savings of up to 40 percent at the Donald Haack holiday open house, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Dec. 4. 4611 Sharon Road. 704-365-4400.
• Jeffre Scott Apothecary is hosting a holiday part at the Piper Glen location, 6-9 p.m. Dec. 6. Cocktails, fashion and eclectic beats are on the menu. 6432 Rea Road; 704.544.0750
• Mack and Mack Charlotte will have an open house 1-5 p.m. Dec. 7. Specialty Shops on the Park, 6401 Morrison Blvd. 704-365-3002
• Sample desserts and hot chocolate while shopping at the St. John boutique at SouthPark, 1-5 p.m. Dec. 13. Complimentary Gift Wrapping. RSVP: By Dec. 10, 704.366.4416.
• Through Feb. 15, 2009, visitors to the Mint Museum and Mint Museum of Craft + Design will receive $1 off admission with the donation of a canned or non-perishable food item. The food drive will benefit Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina.
  

Stylish gift-giving

Mid-1980s Madonna hands or ingenious winter wear for electronics obsessives?
You decide.

Frugality and fashion don't have to be mutually exclusive. Sure, it's easy to drop a ton of cash (if you've got it) on the latest bag or a big bauble. But true style shines through when careful consideration meets purposeful intent.

When the Etre Touchy gloves arrived in the office, the techies who sit near me cooed with excitement. The European gloves have a partial 1980s feel -- the index and thumb fingers on each glove are partially fingerless to allow for use with hand-held electronics such as iPods, iPhones and Blackberrys. £14.99 or approximately $23 U.S. dollars, which includes worldwide shipping.

Read Thursday's Style section for eight more gift suggestions that exude style without emptying your pockets.

LISTEN UP! I'll be on the Matt & Ramona show at 6 p.m. Wednesday to talk about holiday gifts. Listen at 107.9 FM or online.

Free Friday: Fashion Firing

This week's prize pack includes Benefit Primpcess, David Yurman eau de parfum and The Body Shop Large Colour Palette, and has a retail value of more than $175.

Welcome to the fourth Free Friday. Every Friday through Dec. 19, I'll be giving away free beauty products, accessories and fragrance.

The winner of last week's giveaway is Kiera McMillan. The answer we were looking for is Alexander Wang. Here are the rules for entry:

E-mail your answer to each week's question to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.

Your answer must be in the subject field of the e-mail.

Include your name and phone number in the text of the email.

Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.

Correct answers to the question posed each week will be entered into a random drawing.

One entry per e-mail address, please. Only the winner will be contacted.

Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Here is this week's question: Which designer lost his creative director position after showing grunge on the runway in 1993?

Giving beauty thanks

Sure, I'm thankful for my family, friends and our health, but I'm also thankful for Buxom Lips, which gives me the bee-stung look without surgery or the big price tag.

Happy Thanksgiving! In the spirit of the day and holiday season, here are five products I am thankful to have found this year:

Tallulah Glossary in Mouth of the South: The color in the tube is a bit scary in it's brightness, but the gloss is fab alone (SPF 15) or on top of another lip color or pencil. Available at Jeffre Scott Apothecary.

BareVitamins Prime Time Eyelid Primer: I was doubtful that anything could slow or stop the landslide eyeshadow thing I had going on. Until I tried this primer. Fabulous! Available at Potion.

Kiehl's Centella Skin-Calming Facial Cleanser: This gentle, soap-free cleanser washes without drying. There's also no greasy film left behind after rising.

Bare Escentuals Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish: Your lips will tingle, and not in a frightening way. And your lips will feel more plump without having to go to platypus surgery extremes.

Too Faced Lash Injection: I had been on a seemingly endless quest for fat eyelashes when I discovered this big mascara. It was love at first swipe -- I can wear everyday or crank up the volume with few more coats for night time.

What products are you thankful for this year?

Christian Siriano in Charlotte

Fierce "Project Runway" season four winner Christian Siriano will be in Charlotte on Dec. 4 at Coplon's in Phillips Place.

As part of his visit to the Queen City, he'll be the guest of honor at a brunch and fashion show to benefit Dress for Success Charlotte. Tickets, $100 each, are limited. Visit the Dress for Success website for more details. A trunk show, open to the public, will be 11:30 a.m- 5 p.m. at the store.

Christian and I spoke by phone recently. Read Thursday's Style section for the full story, but here's an exerpt of our conversation.

How would you characterize your 'Project Runway' experience? "It’s so funny, it was such a long time ago, but it’s still so prominent. (‘Project Runway’) opened every amazing door for me. I skipped five years of the fashion industry. It was a lot of work, but I have no bad things say about it. It made my career."

What has been the biggest change in your life since 'Project Runway'? "Everything and all of the above. My bank account is different! It's fabulous. I moved into a big beautiful loft in Williamsburg that is my studio too."

Free Friday: Beauty 'Influence'

This week's prize pack includes a copy of "Influence" by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Hermes Eau Des Merveilles Glittering Fragrant Powder, Ecotools 5-piece mini-brush set and a Body Shop Sparkle Eye Palette. The prize has an estimated retail value of more than $120.

Welcome to the third Free Friday! Every Friday through Dec. 19, I'll be giving away free beauty products, accessories and fragrance.

The winner of the last week's giveaway is Anna Marshall. The answer we were looking for is Susan Posnick.

Here are the rules for entry:

• E-mail your answer to each week's question to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.


• Your answer must be in the subject field of the e-mail.


• Include your name and phone number in the text of the email.


• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.


• Correct answers to the question posed each week will be entered into a random drawing.


• One entry per e-mail address, please. Only the winner will be contacted.


• Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Here is this week's question:

Which designer recently won the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund award?

Shopping the Show

I lingered for some time at The Bag Girl's display, featuring bags and accessories made from vintage (and vintage-inspired) textiles.

I made my first trip in ages to Southern Christmas Show this week. The show runs through Sunday. There were a few things that caught me off guard:

• I arrived at 9:30 a.m., hoping to beat the crowds (doors open at 10 a.m.). The main parking lot was already 1/2 full when I rolled up.


• What economic crisis? The weekday crowd was shoulder-to-shoulder with minutes, and nearly impassable when I left around noon. And, it wasn't just folks browsing -- they were loaded down with bags.


• It was hard to be an anti-excess-of-the-holidays grinch while being bombarded with twinkle lights, festive songs and loads of unique offerings.


• Artisans weren't shy about proudly proclaiming their items were hand-made. Subtle (and not so, sometimes) signs help make shoppers make more informed decisions by questioning where their intended purchases originate.


• Most shoppers looked like festival pros -- cross body bags, rolling carts to hold their purchases, etc.. But I was stunned by the number of people wearing inappropriate clothing. Flip-flops are not good for walking in a tightly packed crowd. Or in November when it's so cold.


• Leave your outerwear in the car, but bring your patience.

Did you go? What is your take on the show?

Helping (our) hands

My favorite spa-like treatment for dry hands involves Old Navy fleece gloves and Curel.

Temps in Charlotte have quickly become mighty frigid for this time of year, and already my hands are taking a beating. I can't seem to put enough lotion on them -- they drink it up and still I have snaggy cuticles and brittle nails.

One way to prevent ashy hands is to wear gloves outdoors constantly.

Here's tip from my mom back home in Michigan, who is a glove-wearing fanatic (and you can tell from her perfectly moisturized hands in the dead of winter): Lotion up your hands right before putting on gloves when you leave in the morning. Make sure to wear your gloves as long as you can, and you'll have a head start on supple hands.

My mom's process works in a similar way to moisturizing your feet with lotion and heavy socks at night, except that it's your hands and you're not sleeping.

Do you have any tips for combating dry skin?

LISTEN UP! I'll be on the Matt & Ramona show at 6 p.m. Wednesday to talk about the five men's must-haves for building a solid wardrobe. Underwear is more important than you think, as are nice shoes. Read more in Thursday's Style section.

Free Friday: Makeup madness

Today's freebie is a copy of Bobbi Brown's new "Makeup Manual" (which is set to hit stores Dec. 1) and Urban Decay's VIP 24/7 Eye Pencil set and Three Piece Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner Set. Retail value of the trio is around $100.

Welcome to the second Free Friday! Every Friday through Dec. 19, I'll be giving away free beauty products, accessories and fragrance.

The winner of the last week's giveaway is Rhea Kelley. The answer we were looking for was Oleg Cassini.

The response to last week's giveaway was overwhelming -- more than 1,000 entries hit our inbox! We're refining the rules for entry a bit. Here they are:

• E-mail your answer to each week's question to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.


• Your answer must be in the subject field of the e-mail.


• Include your name and phone number in the text of the email.


• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.


• Correct answers to the question posed each week will be entered into a random drawing.


• One entry per e-mail address, please.


• Only the winner will be contacted.


• Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.
  

OK. Here goes with this week's question:

Which famous name in cosmetics, who has an eponymous line (available in Charlotte), was the personal makeup artist of Mary Kay Ash, founder of Mary Kay cosmetics?

Fashion and philanthropy

First, some quick housekeeping: the winner of the Nov. 7 Free Friday prize will be revealed tomorrow during the next giveaway.


The work of local designer Luis Carlos Machicao was the featured at the Assistance League of Charlotte's "Savor the Season" fashion show and luncheon recently (above). Proceeds from the event, held at the Renaissance Charlotte Suites Hotel, benefit the ALC's child-based philanthropic programs.


Designer Zang Toi (above), recently at Coplon's in Phillips Place for a trunk show, shared details of his fundraising efforts for Lance Armstrong's Livestrong campaign. In 2007, he and his Team Toi teammates raised $267,000 for Armstrong's organization.

Shopping deals and gifts

Here's just a few pieces of shopping news to cross my screen recently:

• Petal Boutique (1315 East Blvd.) has launched a retail website. Just like the brick and mortar store, the online shop carries Anlo, BCBG, Christopher Deane, James Jeans, Jbrand, Joe’s Jeans, Juicy Couture (kids and baby), Julie Haus, Mike & Chris, Rebecca Minkoff, Shoshanna and Splendid Littles. Snatch up clothes by Mara Hoffman and Ella Moss, among others from the sale rack online.
  
  
• Harold's, a long time South Charlotte fave, will be closing its doors at Speciality Shops on the Park. Sales will continue until all merchandise is gone. A friend swung by the location earlier this week and said pickings are already slim.
  
  
• Nordstrom and Clinique are offering the "first-ever celebrity-designed" gift with purchase through Nov. 22. The Trina Turk cosmetics bag holds seven small Clinique products, including Lash Doubling Mascara and Zero Gravity Repairwear Lift. Valued at $60, it's free with any Clinique purchase of $25 or more.
  
• With a $500 purchase in select departments at Neiman Marcus through Nov. 22, shoppers will receive a trio of bangles by Roxanne Assoulin for Lee Angel. Qualifying departments include: women’s apparel, accessories, designer jewelry, handbags, shoes and cosmetics.
  

Free Friday: Jo Malone gift set

Today's freebie is a Jo Malone white jasmine and mint gift set with bath oil, body creme and a candle (approximate retail value $200).

Welcome to the first Free Friday! Every Friday through Dec. 19, I'll be giving away free beauty products, accessories and fragrance.

Here's the deal: E-mail the answer to each week's trivia question to style@charlotteobserver.com. Be sure to include your name and phone number. Entries must be received by 6 p.m. Friday.

Correct answers to the question posed each week will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please. Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Ready? In the spirit of all this presidential fashion talk, here's today's question:

Who designed Jacqueline Kennedy's gown for the 1961 inaugural ball?

Good luck!

The winner is Narciso Rodriguez

Sure, her husband was just elected the 44th president of the United States, but Michelle Obama shone last night in a black and red Spring 2009 Narciso Rodriguez dress (above).

While I am on the fence about the black bands crossing her midsection (some friends said they thought it was slimming, I thought it was distracting), I am delighted that the new first lady continued her stylish dismissal of the suit as campaign attire for women.

Her progressive, realistic personal style includes wearing J. Crew as proudly as Thakoon. I can't wait to see what she chooses for the inauguration.

Thoughts?

The dress as shown on the runway during Narciso Rodriguez's Spring 2009 show.

Inside the Capitol party

A scene from the Capitol party Saturday night (Jason Miczek photo)

The fabulous and fashionable turned out in droves to fete Laura Vinroot Poole's Capitol boutique Saturday.

Guests were welcomed to the store at Sharon and Colony roads by the sounds of a brass band on the balcony.

Inside, some 200 guests circulated, noshing on refined versions of southern faves -- mini ham biscuits, wee pieces of fried okra and crab cakes. It's hard to say which drink had folks buzzing more: the so-good-you-don't-realize-it's-power Firefly sweet tea vodka cocktail or the Mason jar of plum moonshine that was passed around for everyone to try.

Local notables on hand included former Charlotte mayor (and proud papa of Laura) Richard Vinroot.

Out of town VIP guests included designers Barbara Tfank and Chris Benz and actress Eva Amurri. Designer Erin Fetherston said she was impressed by what she saw on her trip to Hendrick Motorsports earlier in the day. Rodarte sisters Kate and Laura Mulleavy discussed the jewelry their artist mother Victoria sells at Barneys and the Halloween inspiration (some five months in the making) for their custom display at the entrance to the store.

Poole, who looked radiant in a cotton-candy-pink Rodarte confection, left little to chance when it came to her duties as ambassador of the South and Southern hospitality. Her out-of-town guests this morning were to receive a wake-up delivery of Bojangles biscuits and Cheerwine.

Here's me (left) and stylist Melissa Lamkin in the courtyard of the store (Jason Miczek photo).

So fresh, so clean

Before: 1980s hair metal.


After: Short and chic.

Thank you Adam Morrison.

I agree with what some of your teammates recently told Observer writer Rick Bonnell: “I told him now he's got to get rid of that nasty mustache,'' said teammate Sean May. “Then he's ready to go.''

Sharpie love

As I dragged my beloved animal-print pony hair Danskos out of summer hibernation recently, I said a silent prayer of thanks to the patron saint of shoe longevity: the Sharpie.

I know that's a lot to take in all at once. Animal-print pony hair? Oh yes, they are just that fab (right).

Someone who professes to be stylish wears clogs? You betcha -- my feeties need a comfy non-Crocs break from 4-inch heels a few times a week.

Anyway, back to the Sharpie love. Last year, I realized I loved my clogs a little too much: The cuffs of my pants wore off the pony hair.

I couldn't stand the thought of retiring them, so I did the next best thing. I went to AC Moore, bought a slew of fine-point Sharpies in an array of browns and got to rehabbing my clogs. The result? Refreshed (still bald in spots, but less noticeable) animal print Danskos.

This isn't the only time the Sharpie has averted a fashion crisis. But I've never gone as far as one friend who used one of the markers to color in a snag on her tights. It worked well until the hole moved (and she had to recolor).

What is your fashion lifesaver?

Shoe fetish? Tell me about it

We've got a busy couple of months ahead of us in Style-land. And I know you can help us. We're looking for readers to share their stories on a few different subjects.

If you're willing to be quoted in the Charlotte Observer and have an anecdote or experience you'd like to share about the following topics, send an email to the style@charlotteobserver.com. Be sure to include your name, phone number and a brief description of your story.

• How do you cope with the pain and problems associated with wearing high heels? Are blisters, aching heels and other maladies worth it for the look of your tootsies in 5 inch heels? Or do you prefer higher?
  
  
• Are you a man who is embracing his inner fashionista? Or do you know a man who has come to appreciate the benefits of a well-put-together wardrobe?
  
  
• What is your favorite tip for dressing for holiday parties?
  

Stylista: It's like a trainwreck

Oh Anne Slowey -- you're no Miranda Priestley, even after throwing your coat and bag at a contestant on "Stylista."

I can't take my eyes off the screener of "Stylista" which premieres at 9 p.m. Wednesday on The CW. It's a campy train wreck full of intriguing questions:

• How has Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey gotten this far in fashion without knowing how to walk in heels?
• Will this new reality series replace "Project Runway" in the catty hearts of fashion fiends?
• How did Tyra Banks' production company convince Elle magazine that participating in this program was a good thing?
• Shouldn't someone have mentioned to the cast and crew that being a "Devil Wears Prada" knockoff is so 2006 (or even 2003 if you're talking about the book)?

Will I watch the trashtastic, tragic fun? You betcha.

Project Runway: And the winner is ...

Not only did she get Tim Gunn to wear a bike helmet and ride a tandem, Leanne won Season Five of "Project Runway."

My girl Korto came in second with her beautifully colorful collection, featuring her elegant beadwork.

Like the whiny broken record that she is, Little Miss Tugboat (aka Kenley) rocked the noose-like rope details on her dresses and finally got a clue, but not before taking a tone with Tim (again).

So who does that leave as the winner? Of course, Leanne. Her collection at Bryant Park was the most cohesive and sophisticated.

It was great to see three women with a strong point of view in the finals, but my overwhelming sense at the end of this episode (and season) was relief. It's over. Finally.

Thoughts?

Sundance love or obsession?

How did I develop this unnatural love of all things Sundance, specifically "Iconoclasts?" The blame falls on on captivating designer Tom Ford (left) and artist Jeff Koons, the subjects of the first episode I watched.

Have I told you that I'm obsessed with the Sundance Channel?

I apologise if I'm repeating myself, but I can't stop TiVoing documentaries and spreading the good word about the channel's fabulousness. I spent the weekend with a slew of fashion docs the channel aired last month, including "Marc Jacobs & Louis Vuitton."

And, I'm giddy that my gateway Sundance show, Iconoclasts, is returning at 10 p.m. Thursday (featuring Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Sir Richard Branson).

Highlights for the rest of the season include: designer Stella McCartney and artist Edward Ruscha on Oct. 23; skater Tony Hawk and actor/director Jon Favreau on Oct. 30 and Venus Williams and Wyclef Jean on Nov. 13.

Some of my favorite pairings from past seasons include Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder and surfer Laird Hamilton; actors Robert Redford and Paul Newman; dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov and chef Alice Waters.

Have you watched? What do you think?

Crazy designer deals

Shoppers snatching up deals Friday morning at the first Downtown Boutique Warehouse sale in Mooresville.

If you're interested in William Rast denim for $75 (True Religion, too), then hustle to downtown Mooresville for the first Downtown Boutique Warehouse Sale, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10 and Saturday, Oct. 11.

The sale being held at 183 N. Main St., Mooresville 28115. Details: 704-660-09223.

The collaborative sale, touting deals up to 90 percent off, features clothing, shoes and accessories from the following Lake Norman boutiques: Dot's Women's Wear, Monkee's of Lake Norman, Fresh, Avalilly's, Lollipop Decor, Along Came a Spider, Sweet Grass, Four Corners Framing & Gallery, Lavendar Boutique, Pout Couture and The Mustard Seed.

Among the brands spotted at deep discounts: Ella Moss, Rebecca Taylor, Tory Burch, Nanette Lepore, Juicy Couture, Denim of Virtue and many more.

The shoe deals rival the denim deals. I tried to will my feet into a pair of red patent Marc by Marc Jacobs sandals -- for $25!! -- to no avail. Tried to perform the same shoe magic with a leopard-print pair of Stuart Weitzman ballet flats. No luck.

I didn't leave empty handed -- I snatched up two Karlie tanks for $10 each.

Project Runway: Then there were three

There was no winner of Wednesday's epi, but Kenley "borrowed" some inspiration from Alexander McQueen with her feathered bridal gown.

My fellow Kenley haters will be saddened to learn (if they don't know already) that little Miss Tugboat made it to the final three to show at Bryant Park.

Which is so sad, given that nearly her entire collection is a copy of someone else's work, including the feathered wedding gown she sent down the runway (Michael Kors told her it looked just like the Alexander McQueen). Remember that Balenciaga silhouette she "borrowed" early in the season?

Tim Gunn visited each of the final four where they were working on their collections. And of course, there were lots of tears. Jerrell bawled when he talked about his truck-driving Daddy, Kenley cried when Tim complimented her on her fabric selection, Korto cried on the runway when she thought she might get the boot (Jerrell did). Tim cried because he was proud of them all.

My favorite moment of the whole epi was Tim in a helmet riding a tandem bicycle with LeAnne in Portland.

Thoughts?

Combative shopping?

Reared from an early age on marathon mall trips with my mom and aunts, I did not anticipate that I would ever tire of the physical act of shopping. But these days, I'm dismayed by the growing lack of civility between shoppers and sales clerks.

Think I'm being dramatic? Witness a recent encounter shared by a friend:

K was shopping at an upscale Lake Norman boutique and had tried on a designer dress that didn't quite fit. She told the sales clerk, who responded, “Well, maybe that can be your goal – to fit in that dress.”

Oh no, no, no. Read Thursday's Style section for more tips on how to diffuse shopping rage.

Shoppers and salespeople, share your shopping story here ... good or bad!

Spooktacular fashion

Don't be fooled -- that's not Madonna, that's me circa 1986, I think, doing my best Madge impression.

It's contest time!

Send us a picture of your best fashion-related costume from the past and your name will be entered in a drawing for a giveaway: Philosophy’s Haunted House, featuring a trio of mini bath products.

E-mail the photo along with your name, phone number and the details of the photo you’ve sent (year it was taken, whom you’re portraying) to us. Deadline for entry is Oct. 16. Entries will be considered for publication in an upcoming Style section.

Project Runway: O.V.E.R. it.

Jerell's winning look, based on a photo he snapped at the botanical garden.

The melodrama amps up as the number of designers dwindle ... and I'm officially over this season of "Project Runway."

Why? Here's a few reasons, just from Thursday's episode:

• Kenley hates on the designers, claiming LeAnne's lack of "selling it" on the runway as the reason her mom jeans/faux hip-hop look lost the rock 'n roll challenge.
• Kenley cries because she grew up on a tugboat, where rudeness is apparently welcomed, along with eyerolling and being disrespectful.
• Jerell, Korto and LeAnne delight in keeping crabby Kenley out of the cool kids circle, and refuse to share their tulle with the absent-minded whiner.
• Since she's already talked smack to Tim Gunn, Nina Garcia, Michael Kors and her fellow designers, Kenley focuses her grating defensiveness on Heidi. Imagine the most obnoxious whiny ValleyGirl tone you can, and picture Kenley telling Heidi: "I wasn't going for elegant, Heidi, gah!"

So who got the boot? No one. And, given that this "we're cutting to three, nope, we'll keep four" scenario has played out in the last few season, it shouldn't have been a surprise. I know it's "reality" TV and the only reason Miss I-wish-it-was-the-1950s is still on is because she makes for good TV, but dios mio!

I wondered for a sec if it didn't have to do with this recent development in the Bravo/Lifetime battle over PR, but then was too worn out from hating on Kenley to care.

I still think it'll be Jerell, Korto and LeAnne in the finals. I still think my girl Korto will win. Thoughts?

Fab Finds: Pumpkin, pumpkin everywhere!

If you want the deliciousness of a pumpkin pie without the calories, dig into these products. They’re sure to trigger cozy fall-ish feelings despite the typically schizophrenic Carolina weather.

Philosophy’s Pumpkin Spice Muffin shampoo, shower gel and bubble bath ($16; Nordstrom, Sephora) is multi-tasking comfort food in a bottle. The high-foaming soap has a scent that is more spice (cinnamon, all-spice and nutmeg) than pumpkin, but doesn’t linger too strongly outside the shower.

Desert Essence Organics Pumpkin Hand Repair Cream ($8.99; select retail locations) contains organic pumpkin seed oil, which has high levels of vitamins A, C, E, K and zinc. The sweetly -scented lotion absorbs quickly, and doesn’t leave hands greasy. It’s a great overnight treat for hands and feet.

Halloween Contest: Send us a picture of your best fashion-related costume from the past and your name will be entered in a drawing for a giveaway: Philosophy’s Haunted House, featuring a trio of mini bath products.

E-mail the photo along with your name, phone number and the details of the photo you’ve sent (year it was taken, whom you’re portraying) to style@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline for entry is Oct. 16. Entries will be considered for publication in an upcoming Style section.

And maybe, I'll share pics of one the numerous Madonna looks I pulled off back in the day.

SATC stylist @ Dillard's

Wardrobe stylist Rebecca Weinberg worked with actress Sarah Jessica Parker on the set of the movie "Miami Rhapsody" in 1994, then again on the HBO series "Sex and the City."

Emmy-winning stylist Rebecca Weinberg will host Dillard's Fall Fashion show at 1 p.m. Oct. 25 at the SouthPark store.

Weinberg has styled celebs such as Brittany Murphy, Jessica Simpson, Christina Aguilera and Christy Turlington, among others. She has been honored for her work in 1998-2001 for costume/styling direction of "Sex and the City."

During the Dillard's fashion show, Weinberg will discuss the best ways to mix, match and accessorize the latest fall styles. The Condé Nast Media Group, in partnership with Vogue, Glamour, Allure and Lucky, are working with Dillard's to present the free event, to which no RSVP is required.

Gas crisis goodies @ Potion

Local beauty boutique Potion has an inspired answer to your gas woes: now through Oct. 1, call in your order, receive 10 percent off and free shipping.

The fab stores (with locations at Birkdale in Huntersville and Blakeney in South Charlotte) carry a well-edited selection of lines including Chantecaille, Kai, Becca, and the hugely popular Bare Minerals.

By the way, it was new owner Samantha Smith (she recently bought the stores from founder Candice Langston) who turned me on to my product obsession of the moment: Bare Mineral BareVitamins Prime Time Eyelid Primer. It's the only primer I've found that can stop my eyeshadow from creasing and sliding. Sam is also to blame for my unnatural fixation on Becca's Mattifying Primer.

Call the stores at Birkdale Village: 704-655-8755; Blakeney: 704-541-8182.

Project Runway: Sabotage!

Yesssss... one of my favorite songs (and also a ringtone on my phone) is perfect reading music for this PR recap!

First it was Leann with the model steal. Sabotage!

Then it was Jarrell and Korto giving Kenley bad hip-hop advice. Sabotage!

Then there was Korto's bleach fumes. Sabotage? No, just poor ventilation.

Then Jarrell admitting to he wanted to sabotage Suede. It worked. A little.

The crazy design-for-your opponents in a musical genre challenge provided ample opportunity for whining.

My girl Korto took home the win with her punk-inspired menswear ensemble for Suede.

And what a shock, Kenley was the most vocal, most annoying whiner of them all. She snapped at Tim (again) and Nina (what?) and should be thanking her lucky stars that guest judge LL Cool J chose not to respond to her massive diss of hip-hop attire as "stupid."

I was shocked Kenley Spears (Jarrell seemed to have a little too much fun dressing her like a pop starlet) didn't get the boot, but I guess that would have been too obvious.

Thoughts?

FASHION REALITY: Bravo is casting a new show, "Fashion House." If you're interested, check out the details.

Fashion frenzy in Charlotte

"Sex and the City" star Kristin Davis reacts to her line of clothes on the runway in Charlotte on Thursday.
(JASON MICZEK PHOTO -- SPECIAL TO THE OBSERVER)

Charlotte Fashion Week festivities held lots of promise for the Queen City.
(JASON MICZEK PHOTO -- SPECIAL TO THE OBSERVER)

Phew! I am tired after a marathon weekend of fashiony events. But cautiously optimistic about philanthropy and creativity in the Queen City. You can read about my weekend in Thurday's Style section. But here's a quick peek.

By the end of the day last Thursday I was beat. I headed to the Ballantyne Resort in the afternoon to interview Kristin Davis about her clothing line at Belk.

After a quick outfit change and a different pair of shoes, I started the night at the Dress for Success event at the Merchandise Mart. The fab organization helps disadvantaged women gain economic independence by providing free professional attire and support. The group honored Marcia Simon with the Paradigm award and Carolinas native Andie MacDowell was the keynote speaker.

I dashed over to the Blake hotel for a fashion two-fer: the Kristin Davis for Belk/Junior League fashion show and the debut of Charlotte Fashion Week.

The Junior League event was well attended (rumored to be around 700 people) and the "Sex and the City" star was as polished and cute as you'd expect in an ensemble from her own holiday collection (set to hit Belk stores later this fall). She mentioned the possibility of a sequel to the hugely popular movie (Cynthia Nixon said it's likely during the Emmys preshow broadcast on E!).

The inaugural Charlotte Fashion Week festivities were a decidedly smaller affair, but promising. Former Charlottean Carmen Webber was the emcee, mentor and motivator during the festivities, and her enthusiasm was contagious.

Project Runway: Career driven?

She's chic and comfortable -- the perfect combo for a prospective employee. The contestants this week had to create a look for a recent college graduate. Jarrell scored his second win in a row with this structured-but-slouchy look.

I'm a PR broken record. Witness the slight variations on the same themes from weeks past:

I know why the judges are keeping Kenley around -- she's the typical reality-TV girl that you love to hate -- but she's a cocky, self-important train wreck waiting to happen. Wait, what? She dissed Tim Gunn again? Nooooo! Clearly she's out of her weak-vintage-inspired mind.

Suede's blue hair dye must be giving him the vapors, because that horrid clearance-rack at Ross circa 1990 ensemble he put together was inexcusable. I was so distracted by Kenley's incessant smack-talk I didn't immediate realize that Suede's look was overworked, tacky and just not practical. Nina Garcia was speechless! Never a good thing.

The pinstriped/pocket square fiasco finally sent unimaginative Joe home. About time!

Late last week, the six final designers showed their final collections at Fashion Week in Bryant Park. All six were included to keep the secret of who wins Season 5 a secret. But judging from the still photos, it's still Korto and Leann's game. My vote for a possible upset is Jerrell.

Thoughts?

Does size matter?

I'm struggling to overcome my attachment to a cherry-patterned Betseyville cosmetics bag, and my inability to contain my products.

I was recently forced to upsize my bag because my stable of daily primers, powders and shadows had gotten too big. I think it was the Too Faced Brow Envy that was the product that broke the bag's back.

My only requirements for cosmetic storage is that the vessel needs to be easily packable and easily closeable. I've had the best luck with soft-sided bags. I still can't part with a leopard-print LeSportSac bag from my Marshall Field's retail days.

It's not like I haul the goods with me everyday (and now, in bigger the striped oil-cloth case from IKEA I couldn't even if I wanted to), so why am I stressing about the size of the bag? I have a much smaller JV set of cosmetics that travel in my purse.

Maybe it is because the changing of the bags coincides with changes in my life. Three years ago, I proudly could cram all my daily cosmetics needs into a glorified pencil case. Since then, I've had my second child and gone from working part-time back to full and changed jobs.

Or maybe it's just that I am product junkie. Anyway ... What do you use to for cosmetic storage?

Fashion week reflections

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York City wraps up today. Time to check in with Charlottean Ruth Caldwell, buyer for Capitol boutique. She is mid-way through her fashion stay: She’ll spend the next week in the city, placing orders with designers.

How many shows will you attend? Around 30.

Favorite show? Marc Jacobs. No contest. I loved his glamorous gypsy looks, mixing plaid, sequins, leopard print, obi belts, bustled skirts -- everything but the kitchen sink. And it all worked together! Jacobs is one of the few U.S. designers who offers consistently a fresh and independent perspective.

Which shows were you most looking forward to? Rodarte, Oscar de la Renta and Marc Jacobs typically show very different collections, but are three of the most powerful influences on the overall mood of the season. I always look forward to seeing their interpretations of what’s to come.

Describe the overall scene. Even Hanna’s torrential rains in New York have not been able to put a damper on the optimism of the spring collections. Thank goodness for my patent leather shoes, the secret to dashing through giant puddles to get to shows.

Best celebrity sighting? Roger Federer is staying in my hotel (The Carlyle) during the US Open. I saw him in the elevator.

Biggest surprise? My biggest shock has been how horribly, painfully, heartbreakingly thin several of the models walking the shows have been. Wasn’t the industry going to work on this? I joined others in gasping in horror at one girl in particular. Most of these girls are only in their early teens. It’s hard to watch.

Any non-fashion plans? I sneaked into my favorite bookshop today between shows and browsed for a while, leaving with the Spanish version of “Goodnight Moon” for my twin 8-month-old nieces. I would go crazy if I couldn’t have a few non-fashion moments up here. Two weeks of New York fashion can get a little intense.

Project Runway: Then there were 6

I have to agree with Tim Gunn on Jerell's look. It's very school marm redux. But apparently, that's what the former contestants are considering chic these days.

If fashion had a superhero, it'd be Michael Kors. The man is creative and entertaining on and off the runway. His catty commentary has been the star of the show for weeks now, and tonight he was en fuego.

Designers still in the game were paired with those who had been eliminated earlier. Together, they were to create an avant-garde look based on a zodiac sign. Love it! (I'm a Gemini -- June 20 -- and couldn't be more twin-ish if I tried, but I digress).

Designers from past seasons (including former Charlottean Carmen Webber) were brought in to pick the winner. And Francisco Costa, creative director at Calvin Klein, joined MK, Nina Garcia and Heidi on the runway to pick two designers to auf.

MK's mouth couldn't be contained and I agreed with all of it. Blayne's horrific cotton candy bondage dress was "pooping fabric." Terri's dress looked like a "voodoo princess from hell." And he mocked Suede's annoying habit of speaking in third person.

There wasn't one look tonight that I thought was worthy of a win. It was all uninspired, especially Kenley's second hyper-exaggerated take on the Balenciaga silhouette that garnered her a win early on.

And enough of the sassing the judges! I wasn't sad or surprised to see Blayne and Teri get the boot. About time.

Thoughts?