Barneys has racks and racks of items marked down up to 40 percent for its designer sale, which kicked off this morning in-store and online. Men's and women's clothing and handbags from Lanvin, A.P.C., 3.1 Phillip Lim, Rag & Bone, Jil Sander, Band of Outsiders, and lots of others are all on offer. Pickings are good in the shoe department, too: Find Manolo Blahnik, Loeffler Randall, and the fun Alexander Wang ankle boots pictured (originally $585, now $349). Barneys is at Copley Place, Boston, 617-385-3300.

French Connection’s Newbury Street store will offer 20 percent off full-price items from 5-8 p.m. this Thursday in conjunction with a book launch event. (Alyssa Shelasky, editor at New York Magazine’s “Grub Street” blog, is introducing her new memoir, “Apron Anxiety.”) There will be complimentary Skinnygirl wine, gin and tonics courtesy of Hendrick’s Gin, and light bites from Emerald Lounge. RSVP is required; email apronanxiety@randomhouse.com. French Connection is at 206 Newbury St., Boston, 617-247-1301.

Sad to hear about another great business making its exit: dress on Newbury Street will be closing shop on May 31st after seven years. The store now has its remaining Spring 2012 pieces marked down at least 30 percent, and is putting items from past seasons at outlet prices. Brands include Whistles, Edith A. Miller, 3.1 Phillip Lim, and others. (The store owners are looking for another location in Boston, so stay tuned.) Dress is at 221 Newbury St., Boston, 617-424-7125.

It was sad to hear that South End boutique Wild Indigo will be closing its doors next month. (Though given owner Christina Murphy's eye for unique and covetable clothes and jewelry, I expect this will be a hiatus rather than a goodbye.) Until the store closes, remaining items are 50 percent off, including handmade jewelry, scarves, and clothing from Neesh by D.A.R., Last Tango, Chalet, Mystree, and others. Wild Indigo is at 53 Dartmouth St., Boston, 617-424-4401.

If you're looking to spruce up your wardrobe -- or just get out with the family -- Wellesley’s Linden Square will be a good place to be on Saturday. There will be activities including free face painting and music for kids and a sidewalk sale with lots of good deals from participating stores. Here's a rundown:

--Ceri will have tops, pants, dresses priced at $25-$100 (originally $100-$500);
--Staccato will take up to 40% off clothing and accessories;
--Kenzie Kids/K*Girl will be starting its spring clearance sale with up to 60% off on select items;
--National Jean Company will be offering 25 percent off storewide;
--Sara Campbell will have spring items and new samples marked down up to 50 percent;
--Salon Maleah will offer 20% off all products;
--Magic Beans will have clearance baby gear and toys marked down up to 50 percent.

Happy shopping!

I was sad to hear that the perennially cheerful Betsey Johnson is going out of business. Right now, clothes, jewelry, handbags, and shoes are 20-50 percent off. The markdowns are expected to last until the merchandise is gone. Find Betsey Johnson locations here.

Gently priced designer duds, new and vintage-inspired jewelry, and home accessories abound at Ensemble, a recently opened boutique that includes a mix of new and consigned items. On a recent visit, consigned pieces included bright, springy dresses by David Meister and Lilly Pulitzer; a stunning Burberry runway dress and a couple of Armani suits; and Kate Spade and Marc Jacobs bags. (Prices for consigned items are generally one-quarter to one-third of retail.) New items include covetable handmade leather cuffs ($30), $20-earrings and scarves, and a range of home items (check out the iron mermaids). Ensemble is at 62 Salem St., Boston, 617-455-8711.

The School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston holds its annual Spring Sidewalk Sale Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hundreds of pieces including ceramics, photographs, screen prints, jewelry, handmade cards, and more will be on offer at prices starting at around $5. A portion of the proceeds will go to Mobius, a Cambridge nonprofit supporting experimental art. The sale happens on the sidewalk along Museum Road, between the school and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. (In case of rain, it will be held indoors at the school, at 230 The Fenway, Boston.) Find more details here.

Patch NYC is taking 20 percent off jewelry and scarves from its own line through Sunday. Finds include intricately crafted earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings and stylish, mixed-pattern scarves. Shop the sale in-store at The Courtyard at 46 Waltham St. (corner of Washington St.), Boston, 917-292-2640, or online here.

If you're still wondering what to get mom for Mother's Day, you might do well to get advice straight from the source. Plum District, a flash-sale site powered by moms around the country who scout out good deals, has discounts of up to 80 percent on everything from jewelry and beauty products to kids' decor to artisan wine and vacation packages. Deals running right now include a 16-by-20 canvas print of a favorite photo for $27 (normally $87), and an 8-piece mineral makeup set from Bellapierre for $29 (worth $150). Deals last up to 6 days.

Beverly Hills-based jewelry website Art On A Wire has nearly all of its pieces marked down 35 percent through May 1st. (Perhaps a present for mom?) The sophisticated yet playful necklaces, earrings, rings, and leather cuffs are each handmade by jewelry artist J. Aston. The “Feisty in Pink” cuff is marked down 50 percent, with 30 percent of sales going to breast cancer research. Items without a price (for example, the “Long Tail Lolita” and “I Hear Paris” earrings) require you to choose a metal (e.g., 14-karat gold, gold vermeil, or silver); the artist will refund 35 percent of the purchase price on these, also through May 1st.

If you're in the market for some jewelry, here's a sale to hit: DIVA in Newtonville will have thousands of designer contemporary, vintage, antique, and estate pieces from the world over marked down 15-25 percent starting this Friday. The selection spans a wide range of tastes and price points (anywhere from around $11 to several thousand dollars). The selection will be continuously refreshed throughout the sale, which ends April 29th. DIVA is at 331 Walnut St., Newtonville, 617-916-2063.

It may be off-season, but it is Patriots' Day -- and a good time to pick up a new piece of Pats wear. The Patriots ProShop website has most apparel and gifts at 20 percent off through tomorrow. Shirts, caps, photo frames, novelty items (like the toaster, at left). Use the code "Save2012" at checkout.

Tess & Carlos has a wide range of winter and past-season merchandise marked down 50-75 percent at its Newton and Cambridge stores through the end of the month. The Cambridge store has stylish tunics and shirt dresses from CP Shades, Johnny Was, and Biya and covetable cashmere sweaters and vests from Italian labels Biella Collezioni and Incentive by Sasa Cashmere, among other finds. Both stores also have sale shoes and men’s clothing; find Modern Vintage, Jil Sander, C.P. Company, and others. Tess & Carlos is at 1229 Centre St., Newton, 617-965-8377 and 20 Brattle St., Cambridge, 617-864-8377.

Though designer Cibeline Sariano closed her namesake Beacon Hill boutique in January, she is still running her occasional trunk show sales, including one happening on Thursday. Dresses, jackets, pants, and skirts will be on offer for $100 each; tops and accessories will sell for $20-$60. Brands include Lilla P, Saint James, Mystree, and others, along with some of Sariano’s own creations. (Clothing available in sizes extra small through extra large.) Guys can get measured for custom shirts, pants, sport coats, and suits from J. Hilburn, the men’s line Sariano serves as a style consultant for; first time clients get $20 off orders of $100 or more. The event happens from noon to 9 p.m. at The Liberty Hotel’s Ebersol Presidential Suite (16th floor), 215 Charles St., Boston.

Former South Boston vintage Maude Mango will be resurrected Thursday evening for a pop-up store at Habit. Count on lots of stylish and fun clothing and accessories from Maude Mango proprietress Maureen Dahill, now a Rue La La stylist and co-founder of the "Caught in Southie" blog. As a big bonus, Habit will have its own pieces marked down 20 percent for the evening; find BB Dakota, Jack, Hudson, James Jeans, and others. The fun happens from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.; RSVP at habitshop@gmail.com. Habit is at 703 East Broadway, South Boston, 617-269-1998.

Dress has a modest but well-curated selection of Spring 2012 pieces from 3.1 Phillip Lim, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent, Vanessa Bruno, and others marked down 30-40 percent. We especially liked a small pony hair zip bag from 3.1 Phillip Lim ($375, originally $625) and a springy, silk faux wrap dress from Yumi Kim ($136, originally $194). Past-season clothes and accessories are marked down more steeply. The sale will run while the selection lasts; no end date has been set. Dress is at 221 Newbury St., Boston, 617-424-7125.

Here's a site to bookmark for covetable and affordable bags, wallets, briefcases, and other leather goods: roztayger features a carefully chosen selection from ro, Orla Kiely, 49 Square Miles, Bill Amberg, and others, along with a constantly rotating sale selection of items marked down 50-70 percent. On now are Orla Kiely laptop cases, reversible backpacks from ro, and felt zip cases from Graf & Lantz, among other finds.

Downtown menswear store Cuffs & Collars has markdowns on select clothing and accessories through the end of the month. Shirts are 20 percent off (30 percent off if you buy two or more); ties are $20 off; outerwear is 15 percent off; and cufflinks are 10 percent off. The store’s predominately Italian-made selection includes elegant dress shirts, silk ties, and other sophisticated pieces. Cuffs & Collars is at 9 Water St., Boston, 617-720-2833.

Harvard Square celebrates St. Patrick’s Day tomorrow with lots of holiday-themed specials and discounts. First Printer, Finale, Grafton Street, Sweet, and others will have special menus or treats; Follow The Honey will take 10 percent off its goldenrod “honey on tap” (Friday through Sunday); The Maharaja will take 25 percent off lunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday when you print out and present the St. Patrick’s Day invitation from its website. See the full list here. After the festivities are over, TisTik will offer 10 percent off to celebrate spring and give a 20 percent coupon toward your next purchase.

Gilt Groupe is selling tickets to its March 24th Boston Warehouse Sale online, and they are selling out fast. As of this second, $5-tickets for afternoon time slots (between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.) remain. The sale promises rock-bottom prices on designer tops, denim, shoes, jewelry, and more. It happens at the Artists for Humanity EpiCenter at 100 West 2nd St., Boston. Find all the other details here.

Women's boutique Zia is moving from its current Brookline home to Newbury Street, and has markdowns storewide through the end of the month. New spring pieces from Ali Ro, Analili, Aventures des Toiles, Ronen Chen, and others are 15 percent off; past season tunics, dresses, and more are half off. Find markdowns on jewelry and handbags, too. Zia is at 1054 Beacon St., Brookline, 617-566-1990. (The new location opens at 246 Newbury Street in mid-April.)

There will be plenty of good bargains in Andover tomorrow and Saturday, as many of the downtown shops band together for the "Andover Boutique Blowout." Participants include Lyn Evans Potpourri Designs, Izzy’s Emporium, Chic Consignment Closet, Dresscode, and First Date Boutique; find the complete list here. A pop-up boutique both days at 44 Main Street will feature additional good deals from some of retailers (along with Wellesley’s Kenzie Kids and K Girl). Downtown restaurants including Andolini’s, Yella, and LaRosa’s will be offering special menus or discounts throughout the weekend.

If you’re looking to prune the kids’ closets with spring around the corner -- or could just use some clothes and gear —- mark your calendar for next week’s Children’s Drop & Shop consignment event and sale in Manchester. From Monday (the 12th) until Wednesday (the 14th) at 2 p.m., you’ll be able to drop off gently worn spring and summer kids’ (and maternity) clothing, strollers, sports gear, furniture, and more. (First, see the event website for a list of accepted items and instructions for registering as a consignor and entering items into the online system; there is a $5-consignors’ fee.) The sale with all the consigned items happens next Friday through Sunday (March 16th-18th) and is open to all, whether or not you’ve consigned. Both the drop-off and sale happen at Brookwood School, One Brookwood Rd., Manchester. For more information, see the website, call 978-290-2336, or e-mail info@childrensdropandshop.com.

Wellesley boutique Clementine has fall and winter clothing marked down 50-60 percent through the end of the month. Find a nice mix of casual and dressier pieces from Three Dots, MiH Jeans, Desigual, Prairie Underground, pas de calais, Gary Graham, and others. Cashmere and alpaca sweaters and select jeans and footwear are marked down as well. Clementine is at 445 Worcester St., Wellesley, 781-235-9465.

[photo by Emily Covino]

Coolidge Corner bead and jewelry shop The Pear Tree celebrates its five-year anniversary with a sale through Saturday. Everything in the store, including beads, jewelry, clasps, hooks, and other jewelry hardware, are 20 percent off. There are also be two half-off tables with decorative mirrors, bags, wallets, and clearance jewelry, as well as a raffle for a $25-gift certificate to the store. The Pear Tree is at 1298 Beacon St., Brookline, 617-277-9330.

Here’s another flash sale site to add to your list, though this one lets you sell, too: The Real Real, a high-end consignment site, features limited-time boutiques from Chanel, Helmut Lang, Burberry, and the like, and gives you 60 percent of the sale price when you consign your own clothing and accessories. Stylists will talk over the pieces you’re thinking of consigning, and hook you up with a free UPS pick-up. (You can also fill out a form on the site, mail in your items yourself, and have the shipping cost credited back to you when you make a sale.) Sales running now include Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Derek Lam, and Peter Som. You'll need to sign up on the site, those it's free and takes a few seconds.

Sara Campbell hosts a blow-out sale at her South End store tomorrow through March 3rd, with spring, fall, and party wear marked down to $9-$89. Dresses and jackets will be $49 and blouses and sequin tops will be $29, to give away a few of the deals. Accessories will be 80 percent off original prices. Store hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. tomorrow, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. (It will be open normal store hours next week; find them here.) The South End store is at 44 Plympton St., Boston, 617-482-7272.

The Garment District and Boston Costume run their semi-annual half-off sale tomorrow through Sunday. Pick up pants, jeans, and skirts for $4-$7.50 and shirts and blouses from $4-$6. Find both vintage and highly-spirited contemporary wares for guys, gals, and kids. Rental costumes, web sales, and the "by the pound" department are excluded. The Garment District and Boston Costume are at 200 Broadway, Cambridge, 617-876-5230.

Crush Boutique celebrates its second location with a grand opening fete this evening from 5-9. There will be complimentary blow-outs from G2O Spa & Salon, hors d'oeuvres from Stephanie's on Newbury, and goodie bags courtesy of Crush. The store promises the same friendly vibe and mix of high and low price points as the original Beacon Hill location, along with some new names not carried there (like Australian designers Ladakh and Brandy Melville and LA- and NYC-based Boulee, Gold Hawk, and House of Harlow.) Seems like a store to fall in love with. Crush is at 264 Newbury St., Boston.

Newburyport art gallery and shop Chameleon will mark Valentine’s Day with a “conversation heart” Valentine jewelry sale, running this Friday through next Tuesday. How it works: Pick out something you like (the gallery carries handcrafted pieces in sterling silver, 18-karat gold, and semi-precious stones), and at check-out, choose a box of conversation hearts with a discount of 15-50 percent written on the inside flap. Consigned pieces are excluded from the sale. Chameleon is at 18 Liberty St., Newburyport, 978-463-7623.

Wellesley boutique Staccato is running a winter clearance sale through the end of the month, with clothing, accessories, and boots marked down 40-70 percent. Find cashmere sweaters and scarves from Kinross and Vkoo, pants from Christopher Blue and Ecru, waterproof boots from La Canadienne and Frye, and more. Fall bags from JayneMax, Highway, and Mark & James by Badgley Mischka are 50 percent off. Staccato is at 200 Linden St., Wellesley 781-237-4435.

Harvard Square sister stores MDF and Motto are running a winter sale, with jewelry, home items, and personal accessories marked down 30-40 percent. MDF had Liz Kinder ceramics, Italian-made picture frames, Suzi Roher belts, Wallace Sewell scarves (pictured), a few R&Y Augousti pieces, and floor samples (end tables, lamps) when we stopped in. Next door at Motto, a small but impressive selection of jewelry from Saundra Messinger, Talya Baharal, and others is marked down 30 percent. The sale is expected to run for the next few weeks. The stores are at 17 and 19 Brattle St., Cambridge, 617-491-2789 (MDF) and 617-868-8448 (Motto).

View imageDesigner dress and accessory rental site Rent the Runway has retired some of its pieces and is selling them for a song. Gently worn Milly, Nicole Miller, Halston Heritage, Missoni, Preen, Proenza Schouler, and others are marked at 50-85 percent below retail prices, as is a stunning array of necklaces, earrings, cuffs, bracelets, and rings. The sale runs through mid-February. You?ll need to sign up to access it if you?re not a member (though it takes less than a minute).

MY Oilcloth is clearing out its warehouse and offering steep markdowns on its entire current selection as well as older pieces and prototypes on Friday. The satchel pictured, originally $118, will be $39; slightly imperfect seconds will be discounted even more steeply. The company's bags, wallets, laptop cases, cosmetic cases, and other accessories are rendered in a stylish, updated oilcloth, and are virtually waterproof. The sale happens Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 22 Toxteth St., Brookline. It's online now (though a smaller selection) here.

PlanetShoes.com is running a semi-annual clearance sale through Jan. 30th, with markdowns on men?s, women?s, and kids? footwear from Clarks, Jambu, Aerosoles, Bogs, Blowfish, Merrell, FLY London, and others. Styles range from boots of all sorts to sandals, with lots of athletic and casual shoes and some heels in the mix. Accessories including backpacks, handbags, hats, and SmartWool socks are marked down as well.

The Society of Arts and Crafts is hosting a pre-inventory sale in its retail gallery through Jan. 28th, with pieces from artists around the country marked down 15-25 percent. Find lots of intricately detailed, handmade jewelry, from knit and crocheted pieces to bold metallic necklaces; imposing glass and ceramic vases; distinctive gifts (mezuzot made in pewter; glass bottle stoppers; coasters made from recycled traffic signs); and more. The Society of Arts and Crafts is at 175 Newbury St., Boston, 617-266-1810.

Select clothing, bags, and shoes will be up to 80 percent off at Cynthia Rowley's Newbury Street store this weekend. I'm told pieces from the Fall 2011 Collection will up to 70% and lots of one-of-a-kind production samples will sell for $50-$150. Expect lots of bold, fun, feminine dresses and tops. Cynthia Rowley is at 164 Newbury St., Boston, 617-587-5240.

[Pictured: glitter cardigan, reg. price: $350, sale price, $109]

Some of Boston's best-dressed are culling their wardrobes and will sell high-end pieces for a song at Boldfacers.com's third annual Stylemakers Pop-up store and DJ party at the W Boston next Thursday. Linda Pizzuti Henry, fashion designer Daniela Corte, stylist Lydia Santangelo, and other tastemakers will set out everything from Jimmy Choos and Manolo Blahniks to Rick Owens leather pieces to Marchesa gowns. (A couple of sample prices: Blahnik pumps for $75; Marchesa gowns for less than $200.) Danielle and Lisa Kupsc of South End boutique Flock and Elisha Daniels of the Back Bay accessories boutique of the same name will have pieces from their respective stores and their personal collections in the mix. A VIP event with a sale preview happens from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. (tickets are $25 here); doors open for general admission at 7 p.m. ($10, no ticket required). W Boston, 100 Stuart St., Boston. Find a list of participants at left, and find more event details here.

If you didn't get everything you wanted over the holidays, you can pick out a discounted pretty piece or two at Isabel Harvey today and tomorrow. Everything in-store and online is 20 percent off -- bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and stylish home wares (in-store only). Use the code PRETTY if shopping online. Isabel Harvey is at 41 Central St., Wellesley, 781-237-3038.

Pictured: Nantucket Seas necklace, crystal and 14-karat gold plate, originally $98 at isabelharvey.com

Good in Beacon Hill starts its semi-annual sale today, with select jewelry, accessories, and home items marked down 50 percent. Find Lucite bangles from Alexis Bittar; crystal-encrusted bracelets, rings, and necklaces from Kenneth Jay Lane; John Derian plates; Karl Blossfeldt botanical prints; horn and bone desk accessories; and more. Good is at 88 Charles St., Boston, 617-722-9200.

French Connection has sale items marked down an additional 50 percent through the 31st. Lots of casual and dressier party dresses, men's and women's tops, scarves, even shoes, most on the upper level. French Connection is at 206 Newbury St., Boston, 617-247-1301. Shop the sale online and get free ground shipping with the code FC50SALE.

dress has just kicked off its end-of-season sale, with Fall 2011 styles from Fiorentini + Baker, Adam, Parker, 3.1 Phillip Lim, and others marked down 30-50 percent. (Take a peek at the sale items here.) Or shop in person at 221 Newbury St., Boston, 617-424-7125.

More than 50 Salem businesses will be offering specials tomorrow evening as part of a Salem Open House event. Albatross is offering 15 percent off one item, Ben & Jerry's will offer free cocoa and ice cream samples samples; Rouge Cosmetics will give a free gift with purchases of $50 or more; Roost and The Beehive and will offer discounts on boxed holiday cards, ornaments, and stocking stuffers. Find more deals and details here.
.

Looking to finish your holiday shopping and get a good dinner while you're at it? You're in luck: The South End Holiday Night Out happens tomorrow 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., with lots of deals at neighborhood shops and restaurants. Stores including M. Flynn Accessories, Hudson, Boomerangs Special Edition, Lekker Home, J.E.M., and others are offering discounts of at least 15-20 percent; Reside is offering 10 percent off and will have a jewelry trunk show with three jewelry artists. Restaurants including Gaslight, Masa, Myers + Chang, and others will offer prix-fixe menus or other specials. Free parking at 500 and 540 Harrison Ave. Find a complete rundown of deals here.

[pictured: necklace from M. Flynn Accessories]

Neighborhood strolls are in high gear: Along with the Beacon Hill Holiday Stroll and a Shop by Moonlight event in Inman Square (both tonight), South Boston will be holding its own stroll tomorrow from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. with caroling, a shoppers' shuttle provided by Boston Duck Tours, the Mix 104 Street Crew, kids' activities, a tree lighting, and of course, an appearance by Santa. Shops and restaurants along East and West Broadway will have special one-night deals; the following is just a partial list (thanks to Ku De Ta for sending these details):

Ku De Ta (663 East Broadway) will offer 20 percent off all full-price and 30 percent off sale-rack pieces;

Habit (703 East Broadway) will offer 20% off, excluding hand made jewelry;

Nurture Salon and Spa (127 L St.) will have special discounts on products;

Karen's Boutique (647 East Broadway) will give a $10-gift card with a purchase of $50 or more;

The Cranberry Café (704 East Broadway) will offer strollers a free large coffee or mint hot chocolate;

Local 149 (149 P St.) will have free bar bites;

The Playwright (658 East Broadway) will offer a $3-specialty cocktail;

South Boston Running Emporium (341 West Broadway) will have all clothing at 20 percent off and sneakers at 10 percent off;

Salon De Cheveux (661A East Broadway) will offer 15 percent off all products and beauty gift baskets and will have a drawing for a free makeup application;

Stapleton Floral (635 East Broadway) will give out a free Christmas wreath with bow with a $20 purchase;

Norman Crump Studio Gallery (628 East Broadway) will give up to 20 percent off artwork (a few exceptions);

Baystate Physical Therapy (377 West Broadway) will offer a free wellness screening consultation;

The Paramount (667 East Broadway) will have festive holiday treats and will offer a $10-gift card for every $50 spent on gift cards;

Spa Christine & Boutique (699 East Broadway) will offer 20 percent off all retail products and jewelry and will offer $50-gift cards for $35.

The annual Beacon Hill Holiday Stroll happens this Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Charles Street closes to traffic at 6), with Victorian carolers, a strolling brass quintet, horse and buggy rides, and refreshments and discounts at some of the neighborhood stores. Blackstone’s of Beacon Hill (46 Charles St., Boston, 617-227-4646) will have Vineyard Vines ties marked down 50 percent and drawings for Vera Bradley prizes; Crush Boutique (131 Charles St., Boston, 617-720-0010) is offering 10 percent off of purchases; and Charles Street Supply Co. (54-56 Charles St., Boston, 617-367-9046) will offer 10 percent off purchases for people wearing a Santa hat (sold at the store), just to name a few. Find a video of last year’s stroll at www.beaconhillbusinessassociation.org.

Lots happening in Inman Square this Thursday during its yearly “Shop by Moonlight”">"Shop by Moonlight" event, with a scavenger hunt and prizes at select stores by day, and special deals, snacks, carolers, and other entertainment at some of the stores in the evening. Stellabella Toys (1360 Cambridge St., Cambridge, 617-491-6290) will have a wine and cheese tasting from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and will offer 20 percent off one item; Inman Oasis (243 Hampshire St., Cambridge, 617-491-0176) will take 10 percent off products and gift certificates; Boutique Fabulous (1309 Cambridge St., Cambridge, 617-864-0656) will have live music, fortune telling, hors d’oeuvres, and more. Find more event details and a complete list of participating businesses here.

Barneys has just kicked off a designer sale, with select clothing, shoes, and accessories for guys, girls, kids, and the home marked down 40 percent. There's lots to choose from now, with designers including 3.1 Phillip Lim, Alexander Wang, Givenchy, Band of Outsiders, and others well-represented. Shop the sale here or visit the store at Copley Place, 617-385-3300.

Arlington Center boutique Helena’s is offering 20 percent off any one item during a “customer appreciation day-to-night” sale Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (limited to one discount per customer). Choose from dresses, skirts, coats, tops, denim, and more from Nally & Millie, Prairie Underground, Red Engine, liaMolly, and others. All sale items are an additional 10 percent off; no limit to discounts on sale items. Helena’s is at 397 Massachusetts Ave., Arlington, 781-483-3055.

Boston-based online jewelry shop Museum Way Pearls is offering 10 percent off purchases today with the coupon code “Pearls 2011.” The site sells necklaces, pendants, earrings, and bracelets made with freshwater, Tahitian, South Sea, and saltwater Akoya pearls, with original prices ranging from under $50 to around $11,000. Each order comes with a free appraisal and free ground shipping. Buy on the site or call 888-817-2843 to order.

Mapping out your Black Friday shopping strategy? Here's what's planned at area shops both big and small:

Stel’s starts its fall sale at 11 a.m. Friday, with most fall items marked down 30 percent. Brands include A.P.C., Robert Geller, Gary Graham, and Rachel Comey. In-store kids’ boutique Monkey and the Bug will also have most fall items discounted 30 percent. Stel’s is at 334 Newbury St., Boston, 617-262-3348. (The sales will be online as well).

Cynthia Rowley is taking 30 percent off all Fall 2011 styles including velvet dresses, silk blouses, and other soiree-ready pieces. If you can’t make it in on Friday, you can get 20 percent off Saturday and Sunday. Cynthia Rowley is at 164 Newbury St., Boston, 617-587-5240.

Lots of Cambridge stores are offering deals as part of an annual “Plaid Friday” celebration tomorrow. Just a few: Didriks is offering $20 off orders of $100 or more in-store or online with the promotional code “harvard2011” (through December 31st); the Harvard Coop is offering 20 percent off titles from its “Best Books of 2011” list and 25 percent off all JanSport items; Oona’s Experienced Clothing is offering 15 percent off purchases of $50 or more. Find a complete list of deals and store addresses here.

Hudson is offering 15 percent off all in-stock items and new custom upholstery and casegood orders (Friday only). Find lighting, textiles, furnishings, tabletop items, vintage pieces, and more. Hudson is at 12 Union Park St., Boston, 617-292-0900, and 61A Central St., Wellesley, 781-239-0025.

Home consignment store Eddigan’s is offering 10 percent off storewide Friday through Sunday. The selection includes furnishings, lamps, linens, crystal pieces, vintage posters, and more. Eddigan’s is at 416 Salem St., Medford, 781-219-4927.

Newton Centre boutique Duchess is offering 25 percent off any one item Friday and Saturday. (For purchases of more than one item, the discount applies to the higher-priced item). Spend $125 or more and be entered in a drawing for a black frame clutch from Shiraleah and a pair of JoJo Loves You “Bling” earrings. Duchess is at 77 Union St., Newton, 617-964-0054.

Lyn Evans Potpourri Designs kicks off a sweater sale with selections from Desigual, Qi, Left on Houston, 525 America, and others marked down 25 percent through Dec. 11th. Store locations include 8 Church St., Wellesley, 781-235-0096 and 9 Main St., Andover, 978-269-0266. Find others here.

Salem sister stores Roost, the Beehive, and Scrub are giving out $20-gift certificates with purchases of $100 or more on Friday. Find a fun mix of home accessories, bath and body products, cookbooks, cards, and more. The stores are at 40 Front St. (Roost), 38 Front St. (the Beehive), and 230 Essex St. (Scrub), all in Salem. Contact at 978-744-4663, 978-744-0663, and 978-594-8391, respectively.

77kids by American Eagle is offering 40 percent off storewide and giving a $10-gift card with any purchase or gift card purchase through Sunday. Starting Monday, pick up a gift box under the holiday tree with a scratch card for the chance to win an Xbox Kinect, an iPad, Nintendo 3ds, movie passes, and other prizes. (Ends Dec. 13th.) 77kids locations include the Natick Mall, 508-647-5109 and the Burlington Mall, 781-272-2678. Find others here.

Disney Store is offering 20 percent off all items between (just after) midnight Friday and 10 a.m. Select toys, gifts, and stocking stuffers will be on offer from $10-$20. Disney Store locations include Square One Mall in Saugus, 781-941-8001, and South Shore Plaza, 781-380-7700. Find others here.

Roll out of bed, leave on your pajamas and get 20 percent off at select stores in Marblehead tomorrow. DS Designs, Babe, Bus Stop, Marblehead Outfitters, Spirit of '76, and others will be opening at 7 a.m. and offering markdowns on clothing, home accessories, and more until 10 a.m. (There will be coffee and donuts, too.)

In the mood for some early holiday shopping? Beacon Hill businesses will be serving up refreshments and/or discounts tomorrow evening for an inaugural "Third Thursday" event. Specific deals include markdowns on vintage clothing at Artifaktori and 20 percent off jewelry at Moxie. Crush Boutique, Blackstone's of Beacon Hill, and Cibeline are just a few of the other shops taking part; all will be open until 8 p.m.

Up for shopping? Hop aboard a chartered bus for a "fashionista field trip" to Wrentham Village Premium Outlets and hit the new Bloomingdale's outlet and other stores. The bus stops outside Sweet Cupcakes' Harvard Square location at 11 a.m. on Nov. 5 and its Mass. Ave. (Boston) shop at 11:30, and heads back to Boston at 5 p.m. There will be treats from Sweet aboard the bus and swag bags of goodies from the outlets. Tickets are $40, of which $10 goes to Dress For Success. Call Boston Common Coach to reserve a spot at 1-877-723 3833.

Hunt’s Photo & Video hosts its annual demonstration and sale Friday through Sunday, with discounts on digital still and video cameras, photo-quality inkjet printers, lenses, flashes, software, lighting, and accessories. The Melrose store will host demonstrations of new releases from Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, Epson, and others, along with free skill-building seminars throughout the weekend. (Browse the list and sign up here). Hunt’s locations include 100 Main St., Melrose, 781-662-8822; 520 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 617-778-2222; 99 Mount Auburn St., Cambridge, 617-576-0969; and 1207 Washington St., Hanover, 781-312-1166. Find others here.

Though Mohr & McPherson’s Cambridge showroom closed earlier this year, its spirit lives on in Pouf!, a pop-up store featuring imported handmade pillows and floor cushions, occasional tables, rugs, ottomans, and other home accents. Owner Mika Nakafuji, who managed Mohr & McPherson’s Cambridge store, also carries jewelry, Kantha-stitched scarves, and jackets she makes from vintage kimonos. Until Nov. 20th, save 15 percent on purchases of up to $400 and 25 percent on purchases of $400 or more. (Items range in price from $12-$750.) Pouf! Pop-Up Store is at 151 Alewife Brook Pkwy, Cambridge, 339-222-3057.

Bloomingdale’s, The Outlet Store opens in Wrentham on Thursday, with around 25,000 square feet of women’s, men’s, and kids’ clothes and accessories at wallet-friendly prices. Thursday through Sunday, pick up a scratch card for the chance to win an extra 15-25 percent off purchases; there will also be a drawing each day through Sunday for a $500-shopping spree at the store. Bloomingdale’s, The Outlet Store is at Wrentham Village Premium Outlets, Suite 5, The Plaza (near Restoration Hardware), One Premium Outlets Blvd., Wrentham.

Love Judith Ripka? Here's your chance to score big discounts on some of her 18-karat gold and sterling silver luxury pieces. A traveling sample sale starts tomorrow at The Westin Copley Place, then moves to the Hawthorne Hotel in Salem on Friday and ends up at the Boston Marriott Newton on Saturday and Sunday. Find discounts of 50-70 percent; hours and an additional discount are in the image at left.

Eastern Mountain Sports now has select items on sale in-store and online. Select men’s and women’s outerwear is 20-30 percent off; select GORE-TEX footwear is 20 percent off; select kids’ footwear and clothing is 15-30 percent off; select hats, gloves, and mittens are 20 percent off; and EMS long underwear is 15 percent off. The sale ends next Tuesday. Eastern Mountain Sports locations include 855 Boylston St., Boston, 617-236-1518; 1 Brattle Sq., Cambridge, 617-864-2061; and 300 Needham St., Newton, 617-559-1575. Find others here.

Eddie Bauer stores and outlets celebrate the founder's birthday tomorrow by offering 30 percent off all items. (Sale includes the First Ascent line of expedition and ski wear, where available.) Eddie Bauer locations include 500 Washington St., Boston (outlet), 617-423-4722; the Burlington Mall, 781-273-2555; and Wrentham Village Premium Outlets, 508-384-0635. Can't make it into a store? Shop the sale online (also tomorrow only).

First Date Boutique in downtown Andover is offering 20 percent off all items through Oct. 30th. Find fall and winter dresses, tops, skirts, jeans, leggings, bags, and jewelry from BLANKNYC, JoJo Loves You, Alexia Admor, and others. (The discount also applies to already reduced pieces in the store’s “Stood Up” sale section.) Mention the sale at the cash register to get the discount, as sale prices are not marked. If shopping online, use the code FALL IN LOVE. First Date Boutique is at One Main St., Suite 203, Andover, 978-247-8999.

Wild Indigo Boutique is celebrating its first anniversary by offering 50 percent off artisan pottery, glassware, and more through the end of the month. Find Liz Kinder and David Changar pottery, Diane Markin picture frames and ornaments, Kitras glass pieces, and more. The store also carries a well-curated selection of clothes and accessories from local and international designers including Samuel Dong, The Kitchen Sink Bag, Tammy Child, and others, and will host a trunk show featuring local designer Daniel Hernandez's latest pieces on Oct. 21st and 22nd. Wild Indigo is at 53 Dartmouth St., Boston, 617-424-4401.

National Jean Company is running its Columbus Day sale is running tomorrow through Monday, with items in its Newton and Wellesley stores marked down 25 percent. (We’re told select denim will be $45.) Find stylish denim and duds from J Brand, Hudson, Winter Kate, Wilt, Elizabeth and James, and others. National Jean Company is at 34 Langley Rd., Newton, 617-969-2888, and 180 Linden St., Wellesley, 781-489-3500.

After a 15-year run, Newbury Street boutique Matsu will be closing its doors on Oct. 16th. The store is now running its final sale, with steep markdowns on remaining items including clothing and home accessories; pretty pieces from Majestic, Inhabit, Comme des Garçons, and others were marked down 40 percent when we stopped in. Owner Dava Muramatsu will continue selling her jewelry line, Nymph, after the store closes; select pieces are marked down 20 percent in-store. A final in-store event, with energy healer and author Wendy De Rosa, will be held on Sunday from 3-5 p.m. Matsu is at 264 Newbury St., Boston, 617-266-9707.

It's a good time to stock up on fall frocks, as Hanna Andersson's annual Dress and Sweater sale is running now. Find cable-knit rompers for babies, holiday-themed (gasp) dresses and tights, sweaters and sweater vests for boys, and more, most around 30-40 percent off, all pretty adorable. The sale ends Oct. 23rd. Hanna Andersson locations include Burlington Mall, 75 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington, 781-221-1333; Derby Street Shoppes, 92 Derby St., Hingham, 339-200-7083; and the Natick Mall, 1245 Worcester St., Natick, 508-647-3711.

Sad to hear that Greenward in Porter Square will be closing its doors at the end of October after four and a half years in business. Final markdowns have begun: Through Friday, everything is 15 percent off, and starting Saturday, will be 25 percent off. Find everything from eco-friendly cleaning products and organic cotton baby clothing to stylish tote bags, change purses, and jewelry made from recycled skateboards, bottle caps, and reclaimed knitting needles. More sale details are on the store's website. Greenward is at 1764 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, 617-395-1338.

Since the Newbury Street store boutique closed last year, Luna Boston has quietly kept on selling its stylish handbags and accessories online. Now, its Web storefront is set to close, and all remaining items are 50 percent off. While many items have sold out, you can still find bags from Botkier, Diane von Furstenberg, Lauren Merkin, BCBG, and others along with jewelry, scarves, and hair accessories. See the selection here.

Long’s Jewelers is hosting a traveling jewelry show at select locations over the next few weeks. Thousands of pieces including one-of-a-kind Victorian, Edwardian, and Art Deco styles and pre-owned designer jewelry and high-end watches will be on offer at markdowns starting at around 25 percent. The event is happening through Saturday at Long's Boston and Natick stores. From there, it will be at the Peabody store from next Wednesday through Oct. 3rd; the Braintree location from Oct. 5th through Oct. 12; and at the Burlington location from Oct. 14th through 23rd. Find more details here.

Flash sale site Rue La La now has stylish offerings for kids and families through its newly launched Little Rue section. Brands on sale now include Nicole Miller, Freckles + Kitty, and Tommy Bahama. New sales launch every Tuesday night; each lasts 48 hours. Like the website’s sales for grown-ups, the discounts are steep. Until the end of the month, all net profits from Little Rue go to children’s charities. If you’re not a Rue La La member, you can sign up at www.ruelala.com/key.

Stellabella Toys kicks off its semi-annual sale today in stores, with 20 percent off most items including games, dolls and dollhouses, science and nature toys, and more. The sale runs through Sunday. Stellabella has stores in Cambridge, Burlington, and Dedham; find directions here.

Around a dozen Coolidge Corner businesses are offering discounts on clothes, jewelry, pet goods, games and more today. The list includes Cause to Paws, Eureka, Mint Julep, Muddy River Gallery, The Pear Tree, Healthworks, Picture Place, Brookline Grooming & Pet Supplies, Party Favors, Prikidz, and Fire Opal. Find more information here.

Banana Republic is offering 30 percent off one full-price item and 40 percent off two full-price items online today. (Select items only; use the checkout code BRMAD30 or BRMAD40, respectively.) The discount can't be used toward shoes or bags; men's suits; Heritage, Monogram, or Timeless collection merchandise; men's Gavin, Dawson, and Emerson pants; or Chan Luu jewelry.

Twentieth Century Limited has its “Machine Age” jewelry (a subsection of its 1940s and ’50s pieces) marked down 20 percent through the end of October. The selection includes simple chains and bracelets and more elaborate, industrial-inspired pieces, a few embellished with coins or colored glass. A great selection of Bakelite bracelets, rings, earrings, and pins are also 20 percent off (through the end of October). Twentieth Century Limited is at 73 Charles St., Boston, 617-742-1031.

If you can slip away from the office today, you might want to head over to Alibi at The Liberty Hotel, where South End boutique Flock and Chestnut Hill shop Portobello Road are hosting a joint trunk show from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Clothes and accessories will be marked down 50-75 percent. (Sales final.) The Liberty Hotel is at 215 Charles St., Boston.

A heads-up for Sara Campbell fans: The South End location will host an end-of-summer warehouse sale Friday through Sunday, with dresses, tops, jackets, pants, wraps, bags, and jewelry marked down 50-75 percent. One-of-a-kind samples from this season and past seasons will also be on offer. The sale happens from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. The store is at 44 Plympton St., Boston, 617-482-7272.

Happy holiday Monday. Hopefully the extent of your laboring today is browsing (or shopping) the Web. In that spirit, I've turned today's post over to Jared Flint, Style Editor at Gilt MAN, who has graciously given some tips for guys looking to find great deals on flash sale sites. (Find more style advice and inspiration at Gilt MANual). Note: These tips apply to Gilt, but can be applied to just about any flash sale site you like.

1. Get organized. Check the calendar of upcoming sales to see when your favorite brands are scheduled to go live. You can then plan your weekly schedule accordingly.

2. Check your email. Gilt (and other flash sale sites) send out an email 10 minutes before all sales go live. Sign in early and be ready to hit that refresh button right at 12 p.m. EST (the time Gilt sales start) to make sure you don't miss out.

3. Don’t be afraid of the "Add to Cart" button. If you’re unsure about a certain piece, add it to your cart. It’ll automatically be reserved there for ten minutes, giving you some extra time to shop and ponder before pulling the trigger – and possibly missing out.

4. Be patient and add yourself to the wait list on those items that were snatched up early. Wait-listing pieces puts you in line to have first access as soon as they become available.

Need more pointers? Find Flint's flash-sale picks here. (Scroll down about halfway, to "The Perfect Cart." Check back tomorrow for brand new picks.)

Harvard Square shop MDF has select home wares, jewelry, and other accessories on sale through the middle of the month. Lightweight scarves, covetable handbags, and earthy, mostly sterling silver jewelry from Saundra Messinger, Jane Diaz, Connie Verrusio, and others are 40 percent off. Picture frames, glassware, lighting, Liz Kinder ceramics, and display mirrors and tables are around 30-40 percent off (a few pieces marked down more steeply). Next door, sister store Motto has a small but lovely selection of earrings from Miguel Ases, Annie Hammer, and others marked down 40 percent. Motto and MDF are at 17-19 Brattle St., Cambridge, 617-868-8448 (Motto) and 617-491-2789 (MDF).

W Hotels The Store is marking September's Fashion’s Night Out and Boston Fashion Week by offering 20 percent off its latest “Global Glam” collection of clothing and accessories. You can check out the pieces, inspired by the design of three W Hotels (in Taipei, Mexico City, and Austin), here. Eugenia Kim's pheasant feather-trim hat (originally $209) and the pave jewelry (such as the cocktail ring pictured, originally $125) are particularly fun. The sale runs through the end of the month. W Hotels The Store is at 100 Stuart St., Boston, 617-261-8700.

Michelle Willey is having its semi-annual sale through Sept. 4th, with markdowns on an array of spring/summer clothing, accessories, and home staples. m0851 rain jackets, Gitman Bros. shirts, panama hats, and linen tote bags are 35 percent off; new fall cashmere scarves by huit huit, wool or hemp rugs by Armadillo & Co are 10 percent off; and home items including French porcelain dinnerware by Pillivuyt, titanium crystal glasses by Schott Zwiesel (dishwasher safe), and plush Egyptian cotton towels by Matouk are 15 percent off. (Discount available on special orders, too.) Michelle Willey is at 8 Union Park, Boston, 617-424-6700.

If your weekend plans take you near South Boston, you might swing by Habit and Ku De Ta, which are running half-off sales today through Sunday. Habit is celebrating its fifth birthday and marking down everything but fall items and handmade jewelry; Ku De Ta is taking an additional half-off its sales-rack items (brands include Free People, Miss Me, and Joe's Jeans.) Habit is at 703 East Broadway, 617-269-1998, and Ku De Ta is at 663 East Broadway, 617-269-0008.

There will be discounts galore in Coolidge Corner this weekend, as businesses set out marked-down wares for a neighborhood-wide sidewalk sale. Just a small sample of deals: Mint Julep will have summer and past seasons’ dresses, denim, handbags, and more from Milly, Nanette Lepore, and others for $10-$80; The Pear Tree will have select jewelry marked down 50-70 percent and all beads, clasps, and stringing material (for jewelry-making) marked down 20 percent; Magic Beans will have Britax car seats at 25 percent off, along with a table of sale items. Find more info here.

Good in Beacon Hill has select items marked down 50 percent through Saturday (a tax-free shopping day). An exquisitely curated jewelry selection includes handmade pieces by Sandrhyme (earthy, beaded necklaces); Just Jules (antique lockets on pearl-adorned, 14-karat gold chains); CHART Metalworks (necklaces and bracelets fashioned from nautical charts and maps); Melissa Joy Manning; Chan Luu; and others. Cashmere and silk-and-cotton-blend scarves and select home items are also half off. The store will be closed this Sunday through August 21st; select items may stay on sale when it reopens. Good is at 88 Charles St., Boston, 617-722-9200.

344 recently opened a warehouse store in the Natick Mall, with good deals on young and spirited clothes and accessories. On a visit late last week, finds included steeply discounted Splendid and Free People tops (including a pretty, rustic red and brown print tunic for $29.99, reduced from $78); camisoles in assorted colors starting at $4.99; and maxi dresses for $29. Shoes from Chinese Laundry, Steve Madden, Seychelles, and others were marked down steeply as well. All items are final sale (no returns or exchanges). 344 Warehouse Store, Natick Mall, 1245 Worcester St., Natick, 508-545-2527.

Dress has pretty fall preview pieces and already-marked down spring/summer styles marked down 20 percent through Sunday. Find dresses, blazers, shoes, bags, and more from Phillip Lim, Vanessa Bruno, Loeffler Randall, Adam, and others. Get an up-close look at the items here. Dress is at 221 Newbury St., Boston, 617-424-7125. Call for size availability.

[pictured: Single Breasted Tie-Front Blazer, was $675, now $250]

Joanne Rossman hosts her annual summer sale this weekend, with storewide markdowns of 10-75 percent. Find jewelry, candles, John Derian paperweights and wall plaques, handmade slippers and pillows, wallets, and other home and gift items. Sale hours are Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Cash or check only. Joanne Rossman is at 6 Birch St., Roslindale, 617-323-4301.

Reiss has steep markdowns in-store and online on summer tops, dresses, men's lightweight sweaters, jackets, shoes, and more. Though sizes are limited in some styles, there's a lot to choose from overall, including cute party dresses to get you through early fall. We're told the sale will run through Saturday in-store. A few doors down, fellow British export AllSaints has select styles marked down up to 50 percent. If you can pull of long earrings (and can stop in soon), check out the small display up front; there were some striking ones (including these) for $21-$25 earlier this afternoon. Reiss is at 132 Newbury St., Boston, 617-262-5800; AllSaints is at 122 Newbury St., Boston, 617-517-0894.

[pictured: Lexie dress, was $310, now $186 at www.reissonline.com/us]

Jewelry and gift boutique Folklorica has pieces from Alexis Bittar, Chan Luu, PONO, Simon Sebbag, Patricia Locke, and others marked down 20-50 percent through July 30th as part of its summer sale. Love Alexis Bittar? His new fall collection just arrived in the store (it's not part of the sale, alas). Along with selections from well-known designers, the store has some nice finds for under $20. Vases, votive holders, and select scarves are also marked down. Folklorica is at 61 Union St., Newton Centre, 617-630-1815.

There will be plenty of bargains from Wellesley Center businesses tomorrow as part of the town's annual July Jubilation, happening from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Isabel Harvey (41 Central St., 781-237-3038) will have a half-off table and a $20-dollar table; Footstock (33 Central St., 781-431-1655) will have discounted shoes from Eric Michael, Cordani, Dankso, and others; and Abigail's (93 Central St., 781-235-3333) will have Lilly Pulitzer clothing and bathing suits at up to 30 percent off, other spring and summer merchandise at up to 50 percent off; and a selection of Christmas wares at up to 70 percent off. (Find a partial list of other participating stores here.) Central Street will be closed to traffic to make room for music, a petting zoo, a family photo booth, and other kids' activities; Elmo and Smokey the Bear will be on hand as well. Find the complete schedule of events here.

Newton Centre boutique Duchess will have summer apparel marked down 20-50 percent and new fall items marked down 10 percent tomorrow and Friday to celebrate its second birthday. Find Lilla P, Karina Dresses, Mystree, White + Warren, and others. Get a $15-gift certificate with purchases under $100 and a $20-certificate for a purchase of $100 or more (good toward your next visit). There will also be drawings for gifts from Duchess and a gift certificate to the nearby L'Optique Boutique (designer sunglasses and eyewear). Duchess is at 77 Union St., Newton, 617-964-0054.

[pictured: Lilla P dress, available at Duchess]

Louis kicks off its yearly summer sale on Wednesday, with men’s and women's Balenciaga, The Row, Marni, Proenza Schouler, Jason Wu, and others marked down 50 percent through Sunday. Also beginning Wednesday, St. John will have lots of spring pieces (some currently in-store, some from other boutiques) marked down 70 percent as part of a consolidation sale. Selection is limited, so it's best to stop in early. That sale ends on Sunday as well. Louis is at 60 Northern Ave., Boston, 617-262-6100. St. John is at 292 Boylston St., Boston, 617-338-6130.

Flat of the Hill has big markdowns on most items through July 31, as it tries to clear out before renovations in August. Scout by Bungalow bags, Suburban Silk photo frames, Mariposa napkin boxes and nautical pieces, candles, costume jewelry, and more are 60 percent off; Kooba, Botkier, and Rebecca Minkoff bags and Lauren Merkin clutches are marked down 75 percent. New sale items will be added daily; follow the store’s Facebook page for updates. Flat of the Hill is at 60 Charles St., Boston, 617-619-9977.

The summer sale signs have begun popping up along Newbury Street, and perhaps no space is more awash in discounted duds right now than Zara. Sandals are anywhere from $29.99-$69.99; handbags start at $19.99; and women's tops are $12.99 and up. (Markdowns are up to 50 percent.) On the third floor, men's button-down shirts start at $29.99 and jeans at $39.99; jackets are $69.99. The sales usually run until stock runs out, which should be sometime in August. Zara is at 212-214 Newbury St., Boston, 617-236-1414.

Next door, French Connection is taking 40 percent off already marked down items; there's still a nice (and less sprawling) selection for guys and gals. That's at 206 Newbury St., 617-247-1301.

[pictured: embroidered dress, $39.99 at zara.com]

Women's boutique J. Mode (pictured) has spring and early summer pieces from Vince, Nicole Miller, Tracy Reese, Johnny Was, Three Dots, Trina Turk, and others marked down 20 percent. Just look for the red ribbons, and you'll find the markdowns. J. Mode is at 17 Front St., Salem, 978-744-7007.

Nordstrom has its half-yearly sale for men is on now online and in stores, with lots of clothes, shoes, and accessories from Converse, Faconnable, Nat Nast, Burberry, Lacoste, and others marked down around 25-40 percent. Find store locations here.

Gap has started its summer sale, with select clothing and accessories marked down up to 50 percent. There's a good selection of tops, jeans, dresses, and maternity wear online (sale selection varies in-store), and as of yet, no end date has been announced.

Original Penguin at Wrentham Village Premium Outlets hosts a guys' evening out event tomorrow from 5-7 p.m. There will be a DJ, food and drink from Narragansett Beer and Whole Foods, and drawings for $50-gift cards. Arrive by 6 p.m. and get extra discounts. Original Penguin is at suite 730 at the Outlets; find directions here.

View imageCohasset Village shops will have discounts on clothing, shoes, home goods, gifts, and more as part of a sidewalk sale tomorrow. Participating businesses include Pink Tulip Clothes & Accessories, Darilynn's Home Presence, Paperscapes, Focus Gallery, Ports & Company, Twist, Outside In,Fleming's Lighting, and Wendy's Closet. We're told the sales will happen rain or shine.

[Pictured: Pink Tulip Clothes & Accessories. Select shoes from Nicole, Madeline, and Yellowbox will be 25 percent off.]

With cooler weather expected this weekend, it should be pleasant browsing at Marblehead's town-wide sidewalk sales, which happen Saturday and Sunday. There will be plenty of bargains all over the town's business district; just a few of the stores participating are DS Designs (158 Washington St., 781-639-2336); Pawsitively Marblehead (63 Atlantic Ave., 781-639-0449 and 9 Pleasant St., 781-990-0081); Shipshape (128 Washington St., 781-631-7477); and Arabella Lingerie (59 Atlantic Ave., 781-631-1299). Head to Washington Street or Atlantic Avenue to find the bulk of the action.

A heads-up for brides-to-be: The Brides Against Breast Cancer gown sale stops at Sheraton Boston Hotel next Saturday and Sunday, with hundreds of dresses donated by top designers, retailers, and manufacturers starting at $199 (valued up to $8,000). Veils, tiaras, crinolines, and other accessories will also be on offer at bargain pricing. Proceeds benefit Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation, which grants wishes to men and women with stage IV breast cancer. The sale happens from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. (You can buy tickets for a VIP champagne brunch at 10 a.m. on Saturday and get first dibs on the dresses.) Sheraton Boston Hotel is at 39 Dalton St., Boston.

If you're looking for things to do this Saturday, you might head over to Needham, where the annual street fair will happen at Memorial Field from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (rain or shine). There will be pony rides and other kids’ activities, singers, dancers, and capoeira; you'll also be able to pick up "Shop Needham First" rewards cards for $10 that will give you discounts at participating businesses. Meanwhile, some businesses in town will be hosting sidewalk sales, including Perennial Designs (silk flowers, vases, candles, candleholders); Taylor’s Stationery (stationery and paper goods); Pollywogs (children’s clothing and accessories); and The Grey Goose (clothing, accessories, gift items). There will be free trolley service between the street fair and the MBTA bus stop on Chapel Street (near the sidewalk sales mentioned).

It's not too late to snag some discounts, if your weekend plans didn't include the stores. Kenneth Cole is offering 30 percent off select men's and women's sandals, clothes, watches, sunglasses, and bags, as well as half off final markdowns. (The sale ends today online and in stores.) Lucky Brand is offering 20 percent off its entire website (including sale items) today and tomorrow, and Second Time Around has extended its sale (30-50 percent off storewide) through the end of the day today. (Find locations here.)

[pictured: Legend straight jeans from Lucky Brand, $158.40 on sale]

Second Time Around is taking 30-50 percent off storewide (including spring and summer pieces, jewelry, and handbags) today through Monday. Find store locations here.

Wrentham Village Premium Outlets runs its annual Memorial Day sale through Monday. Deals include 40-60 percent off storewide at the Banana Republic Factory Store; 30 percent off already marked down spring merchandise and half off already discounted clearance merchandise at Karen Millen; and 15 percent off purchases of $150 or more, 20 percent off purchases of $250 or more, and 25 percent off purchases of $350 or more at Elie Tahari. Find more deals here.

Off Broadway Shoes (off-price designer footwear; sandal pictured) is taking $10 off purchases of $39.90 or more through Monday. Find store locations here.

JoJo Loves You will have its Swarovski crystal "bling" earrings on sale tomorrow through Monday. Full-size blings will be three for $60 (normally $30 each); mini blings will be three for $50 (normally $20 each); and party blings (pictured) will be three for $75 (normally $35 each). There are close to 200 colors/styles in all to choose from. Sale is online only.

Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale for women and kids starts in-store and online today, with markdowns on clothes, shoes, and handbags from BCBG, Elie Tahari, Free People, Nike, and many others. The sale runs through June 5th. Find store locations here.

National Jean Company is offering 20 percent off storewide now through Monday. Find denim and other duds from J Brand, Paige, Hudson, Beyond Yoga, Three Dots, and others. (Guys, there's plenty for you, too.) Store locations include 34 Langley Rd., Newton Centre, 617-969-2888, and 180 Linden St., Wellesley, 781-489-3500.

LuxCouture hosts a vault sale tomorrow from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with clothing, scarves, handbags, and shoes from GoldSign (jeans pictured), pas de calais, Majestic, Shine, Me & Kashmiere, and others marked down up to 80 percent. Select fine jewelry is 40-60 percent off, and fashion jewelry starts at $20. All sales are final; no holds on merchandise. LuxCouture is at 21 Lincoln St., Newton Highlands, 617-969-5600.

A heads-up for brides-to-be: Priscilla of Boston hosts a warehouse sample sale on Saturday, with bridal gowns starting at $199. Bridesmaid and social occasion dresses will also be offer. The sale happens from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Priscilla of Boston warehouse, 40 Cambridge St., Charlestown.

In Coolidge Corner, The Pear Tree is having a spring cleaning sale on beads and jewelry on Saturday and Sunday. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. The store is at 1298 Beacon St., Brookline, 617-277-9330.

[Note: Bargain Bin is off until May 24th.]

Though the weather outside leaves a lot to be desired, Moxie is optimistically discounting its sandals 20 percent through Friday. Brands include Elizabeth and James, Diane von Furstenberg, and Tory Burch. Moxie is at 51 Charles St., Boston, 617-557-9991, and 24 Church St., Wellesley, 781-235-1833.

Andover lingerie shop Night & Day is in its final days, and has bras, panties, and bridal lingerie at 70 percent off. All sales are final; cash or check only. It's at 63 Park St., Andover, 978-475-0343.

Here's hoping for an improvement in the weather by mid-week: Shops in Wellesley’s Linden Square will be celebrating a new outdoor courtyard with sidewalk sales Wednesday through Sunday. Look for deals on clothes, accessories, and more from CERI, French Lessons, Kenzie Kids/K Girl, National Jean Company, Sara Campbell, Magic Beans, and others. There will be family concerts and kids’ events over the weekend, and Qdoba will be offering a free kids’ meal with entrée purchase on Saturday. Find a full list of details here.

If you're looking to get a jumpstart on Father's Day shopping, Gilt City is offering $80 in merchandise from e-tailerBonobos for $40 now through next Thursday. Find stylish golf pants and polo shirts, summer suits, sweaters, and neckties from Bonobos as well as apparel and accessories from Jack Spade, Oliver Spencer, Gant, Timberland, Sebago, and Ernest Alexander. You need to be a Gilt member to get the deal, though it's free to sign up.

[pictured: Ernest Alexander plaid necktie, $72 at bonobos.com]

While you're doing your spring cleaning, you may want to set aside a couple of handbags, a few scarves, or perhaps a few pieces of jewelry to swap away for new (to you) ones at Habit on Thursday evening. To join in the fun, you'll need to bring five accessories to swap. As a reward for taking part, you'll get 20 percent off on any new merchandise and 50 percent on sale pieces (in addition to any second-hand goods you score). Appetizers and drinks will be served. It'll be starting at 6:30 p.m. sharp; RSVP at habitshop@gmail.com. (Space is limited.) Habit is at 703 East Broadway, South Boston, 617-269-1998.

The former Queen Bee in West Newton will be the site of a clearance sale this weekend. Women's clothing, swimwear, and accessories from Milly, Shoshanna, Diane von Furstenberg, Rebecca Taylor, Manuel Canovas, and others will be up to 75 percent off, we're told. Baby and toddler clothing, handbags, and handmade tablecloths and cushion covers in the mix. The sale happens from until 5 p.m. today and from 10-5 tomorrow at 15 Spencer St., West Newton.

The Kate Middleton-approved Reiss has select clothing, shoes, and bags marked down 30 percent in honor of Friday's wedding. You could imagine some of the items making an appearance at the big event (such as the bandeau silk dress, pictured, now $227), though you won't find the Nanette dress that was in high demand a few months back after the princess-to-be wore it in her engagement photos. The guys' selection is heavy on suits, formal button-down shirts, and ties -- so if you weren't invited to the Westminster, at least you can dress like you belong there.

AllSaints Spitalfields has select pieces marked down online and in-store (beginning today). Leather jackets, flowy dresses, knitted jumpers and cardigans, denim and more are half off on the web. No end date has been posted, but I'm guessing the goods will be snatched up pretty quickly. AllSaints is at 122 Newbury St., Boston, 617-517-0894.

[pictured: Jucaro jacket, now $255 at www.us.allsaints.com]

Need some inspiration in assembling a spring wardrobe? Access Hollywood reporter and local gal Maria Menounos, stylist Lydia Santangelo, and WHDH-TV news anchor Frances Rivera will be on hand to offer tips for dressing like a star on an earthly budget at a celebrity-inspired fashion show at CambridgeSide Galleria on Saturday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Register here to get a coupon booklet with deals from White House Black Market, Bebe, and other stores. Admission is free, though $25 will give you entry to a VIP Hollywood Glam Bash that includes beauty treatments, complimentary cocktails and wine, a celebrity swag bag, and more. (Proceeds from the VIP party go to charity.) Find other details here.

Newtonville jewelry shop DIVA is running a semi-annual sale through next Sunday (the 17th), with all of its pieces marked down 15-25 percent. The shop carries an impressive and extensive selection of antique, vintage, and contemporary jewelry from around the globe, including one-of-a-kind pieces designed by owner Donna Soodalter-Toman (DIVA stands for “Donna’s Infinite Variety of Adornments”). Original prices range from around $14 up to many thousands, though there are plenty of wallet-friendly options (such as Alexis Bittar-esque resin hoop earrings, originally just $18-$26). DIVA is at 331 Walnut St., Newtonville, 617-916-2063. Find more sale details here.

77kids by american eagle, which set up shop last week at Burlington Mall and South Shore Plaza, has some nice deals through next Wednesday (April 13th): Spring sale items including tops, bottoms, and dresses are up to 60 percent off original prices; brand new Ts and shorts are $9.95 and up; 3-D T-shirt/glasses/sticker sets are on offer for $7.77; and girls' jewelry and accessories are buy-one, get-one-half-off. The stores carry children’s clothing sizes 0-14 and have kid-friendly features including a free candy and goodie station and a free photo booth where kids can decorate their pictures before they’re printed out. Find 77kids at the Burlington Mall, 75 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington, 781-272-2678, and South Shore Plaza, 250 Granite St., Braintree, 781-843-0926.

Here are three good spots to spend your money this weekend: On Saturday, The Orange Hanger (Arlington Center) celebrates its first birthday with cake, champagne, and a 10 percent-discount storewide (find stylish duds, bags, and jewelry from Weston Wear, JPK Paris75, Alex and Ani, and others). Store hours that day are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Gifted (South End) is offering 20 percent off its stylish Jane Marvel bags (custom orders excluded) now through Saturday. Lots of styles and sizes included. Suneri Boutique (Davis Square) is taking up to 75 percent its sale items tomorrow through Sunday; find party dresses, separates, and shoes from Ronen Chen, Els Petit, GOKA, and others. If your wallet is lighter come Monday, at least you'll have spent wisely.

[pictured: Alex and Ani bracelets at The Orange Hanger]

When you signed up for your first sample sale site, you thought it would be easy to slip in some online shopping during your lunch break. Now that you’ve joined 10 others, keeping up with them all has become impossible. Enter MyNines, which allows you to monitor what’s on sale on any given day from sample sale and discount sites including Gilt Groupe, Rue La La, The Outnet, and others. MyNines displays products currently on sale at select sites (including The Outnet, Modnique, and Peppermint Park) and offers a detailed calendar to help you keep tabs on all the sample sales happening within the next few days. You can sign up to receive alerts when your favorite designers go on sale, and find helpful mini-boutiques curated by fashion bloggers and stylists.

Not long ago, I realized I'd been priced out of J.Crew, and am still unsure if it's because prices did go up or if I'd just become spoiled by H&M. At any rate, it's been fun browsing through its weekend-only online factory, which first popped up last September. While a lot of the prices aren't rock-bottom, there are some pretty good deals to be had: Cardigans that were $64.50-$89.50 are now $38.70-$53.70; the olive lieutenant jacket (pictured), originally $89.50, is now $53.70. Lots of guys' button-down shirts and Ts, too. The factory "closes" Sunday at midnight.

Harvard Square will be a good place to be to save some green today: TistiK is offering 15 percent off green jewelry, mirrors, picture frames, and more (through tomorrow); Hootenanny is taking 20 percent off full-price and sale items for those dressed in green; Curious George Books & Toys is offering 25 percent off St. Patrick's Day-themed books; and Faron Salon has its conditioning treatments marked down 10 percent (walk-in or by appointment; the special runs through the end of April). Cardullo's, Grafton Street, and Russell House Tavern are serving up holiday fare. Find a complete rundown of deals and food specials here.

The Ides of March may elicit a sense of foreboding, but with spring following closely on its heels, it's hard to feel too much dread. South End jeweler Laura Preshong has decided to celebrate the day by offering 15 percent off pieces from her signature collection, which includes lovely earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelet, and cufflinks. The gallery is at 558 Tremont St., Boston, 617-236-7660. (Or shop online at laurapreshong.com.)

[pictured: 18-karat bubble cup necklace, $188 at laurapreshong.com]

The Pashmina Store is offering 10 percent off all orders of $40 or more through March 17th. Find soft wraps, scarves, shawls, and baby blankets made from pashmina wool (a fine grade of cashmere), and wispy, lightweight pashmina-silk blends suited for the warmer months. The site's pre-discount prices are modest: roomy, pure pashmina shawls sell for $69.99-$79.99, for instance. All items are handmade in Nepal. Use the checkout code GREEN to get the discount.

Looking to clear out some kids' clothes, toys, or gear? If so, you might want to gather your no-longer-needed wares for Consign My Closet’s spring/summer sale, which happens March 18th-20th at the Boxborough Holiday Inn. A few details: Consignors get to keep 60-70 percent of their sales, though there's a 30-item minimum; leftover items can be donated to Cradles to Crayons or another local charity. The deadline for consignments is a week from tomorrow (the 15th); find more details here.

If you're not interested in consigning, you might want to mark your calendar for the sale anyway: More than 10,000 items for toddlers through teens including strollers, cribs, bassinets, bicycles, games, apparel, and more will be on offer for up to 70 percent off original prices. Find sale details here.

Ku De Ta has all of its clothes and accessories marked down 25 percent through next Friday. If you're looking for designer jeans, a new dress, or some good jewelry, it's a good time to shop. Find William Rast, Miss Me, and lots of up-and-coming designers. Ku De Ta is at 663 East Broadway, South Boston, 617-269-0008.

If you're looking to get some shopping done this weekend, Andover will be a good bet: 17 of the downtown shops will be hosting sales Friday and Saturday for their annual “boutique blowout.” (Some spots will be open on Sunday as well.) Just a short list of markdowns: Soirée, Andover will be offering 20 percent off storewide, excluding orders (selection includes stationery, invitations, fine gift wrap, and frames); dresscode will have fall, winter, and holiday merchandise marked down up to 75 percent and discounts on select spring and resort pieces; Night & Day will have select bras, panties, robes, and sleepwear marked down 60 percent; and Metamorphosis Art & Design will be offering 20-55 percent off on decorated furniture, handmade art, home accessories, and more.

Restaurants including Casa Blanca, Yella, Dylan's Bar and Grill, and others will be offering specials for shoppers; find these details and a complete list of participating boutiques here.

[Pictured: Torn by Ronny Kobo pleated cami, available at dresscode]

If you're able to slip away from the office or wherever else you're obligated to be tomorrow, you might want to take your shopping allowance to Alibi Bar, where Portobello Road and Flock will set up shop for the day and have discounts of up to 75 percent on clothes and accessories from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sounds like a perfect reason to play hooky, no?

If you're thinking of stimulating the economy this weekend, there seems to be no shortage of sales to help. Here are just a few: Gap has select items marked down 44 percent (a nod to the 44 presidents, natch) online and in-store; Banana Republic is taking 25 percent off already reduced items; Kenneth Cole has select men's and women's items marked down 30-50 percent; and J. Crew is offering 20 percent off of women's clothes, shoes, and accessories (orders $150 or more) and is running a factory sale online through Sunday at midnight. All other sales run through Monday.

Vintage and up-to-date duds, shoes, and accessories are all half-off at The Garment District tomorrow, Saturday and Sunday. (The store will have its brand new wares on the racks come Monday.) Boston Costume, on the building's first floor, will be half-off as well.
Bodega is hosting a warehouse sale Sunday through Wednesday (not at its convenience store-cum-streetwear boutique, but at 132 Brookline Ave). Older inventory and odd sizes from most of their brands will start out at 40 percent off on Sunday and climb to 70 percent off by Wednesday.

Harvard Square neighbors Motto and MDF have select pieces marked down 30-40 percent through the end of the month. Jewelry by Saundra Messinger and Michael Aram; scarves from Scottish textile studio Tessuti; and home accessories including handmade ceramics, blown glass pieces and picture frames are all on offer. Motto and MDF are at 17 and 19 Brattle St., Cambridge, 617-868-8448 and 617-491-2789.

Sara Campbell is in the midst its winter sale, with all fall and holiday clothing marked down up to 75 percent and accessories and jewelry marked down 50 percent. Find charmeuse tops, sparkly skirts, smart tweed jackets, cashmere wraps, and more. Spend $200 or more and get $25 back to spend on full-price spring merchandise. The sale runs at all four stores through Feb. 25th, and then moves to the Plympton Street (Boston) location for one final blow-out event the last weekend of the month. Find a sampling of the sale pieces here and store locations here.

Three cheers for a mild weekend ahead, and to some good shopping in Boston's South End (specifically, on Union Park Street). Michelle Willey (8 Union Park St., 617-424-6700) starts her semi-annual sale on Saturday, with 10-50 percent off home furnishings and accessories and steeper markdowns on winter clothing (we hear there will even be an antique daybed used in upcoming film, reduced from $1250 to $550).; Looc (12 Union Park St., Boston, 617-357-5333) will be finishing its winter sale with up to 75 percent off on fall and holiday clothing, shoes, and accessories; Gracie Finn (18 Union Park St., Boston, 617-357-0321) will have markdowns on Aunt Sadie’s chocolate-scented candles and select winter merchandise, and will be showing the works of local artists Susy Pilgrim Waters and jewelry designer Eva Sklaver; and Old Japan (22-24 Union Park St., Boston, 617-357-8800) will have Japanese wood block prints and kimonos marked down 10-20 percent (throughout February). Find more information here.

Twelve Marblehead shops will band together for an indoor sidewalk sale with steep discounts on Sunday. Among them: Babe will have girls’ and women’s clothing and accessories marked down at least 50 percent; DS Designs will have jewelry, scarves, hats, and handbags at 50-75 percent off; and The Sea Gull Gift Shop will have discounted sterling silver, Swarovski crystal, and sea glass jewelry from Winthrop-based DCK Designs. Other participants include Arabella Lingerie, Bus Stop, Hestia Creations, Hip Baby Gear, Madam Had’em, Moran Studios, O’Rama’s, Rags to Riches, and Suitable. The sale, hosted by the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce Retail Committee, happens from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Philanthropic Lodge, 62 Pleasant St., Marblehead. Cash or check only. Call 781-631-2868 for more information.

[Pictured: multi-colored bead memory wire bracelet from DCK Designs, available through The Sea Gull Gift Shop]

Second Time Around is offering 70 percent off its winter clothing, accessories, and shoes and 20 percent off most new arrivals (today at some locations, tomorrow at others others). If you're worried about not having enough time to shop once you get out of work--or you just prefer shopping at night--you'll be glad to know some of the stores will be open until midnight. Find a complete list of locations and hours here. (Most stores are women's items only; 176 and 324 Newbury Street also carry men's clothes and accessories.)

Menswear shop Blue Dry Goods has its fall and winter apparel and accessories marked down 30-70 percent. (Blue is the owner's last name, rather than a reference to a dominant color in the store.) The selection includes stylish casual and dressier pieces (shirts, sweaters, "soft coats," blazers) from Peter Millar, Ben Sherman, Kroon, Martin Gordon, and others. For boys (sizes 8-20), find Quiksilver and Vineyard Vines apparel and Quiksilver winter hats. Moore & Giles leather briefcases, messenger bags, and weekend bags are on offer as well. The sale is expected to run through late February; best selection is early. Blue Dry Goods is at 16 Walden St., Concord, 978-369-1120.

[outfit includes Martin Gordon microfiber sportcoat, sale price $172; Peter Millar merino shawl-neck sweater, $136; Peter Millar button-down plaid sport shirt $69; lightweight merino scarf, $88]

Flat of the Hill has a good selection of handbags from Kooba, Rebecca Minkoff, Botkier, and others marked down 75 percent (as a plus, original prices are already slightly below retail). To give you an idea of the pricing: a studded black leather Kooba hobo that was $450 is now $113; a fetching Lauren Merkin leather clutch in pale yellow and white that was $155 is now around $39. Each sale bag purchased earns you in an entry in a weekly drawing for a current M Z Wallace bag. (Drawings are each Thursday; the black-studded Gigi bag, pictured, will be drawn for on the 10th.) The sale should continue around two more weeks. Flat of the Hill is at 60 Charles St. (Beacon Hill), 617-619-9977.

Moxie kicks off a jewelry sale today, with select styles by Chan Luu, Lauren Wimmer, viv&Ingrid, and others discounted upwards of 50 percent. Through Sunday, Sonya Renee initial necklaces and all Alex and Ani bracelets (including those pictured) are half-price; flirty cocktail rings and metalskin bracelets are in the mix as well. With any jewelry purchase, get a 20 percent coupon good toward a future full-price buy. Moxie is at 51 Charles St., Boston, 617-557-9991, and 24 Church St., Wellesley, 781-235-1833.

The Orange Hanger has a good selection of its winter wares marked down up to 40 percent. Denim, dresses, skirts, and sweaters from Joules, Sanctuary, BB Dakota, Ronen Chen, and others are all on offer; outerwear, Kinross cashmere scarves and cold-weather accessories are also in the mix. The Orange Hanger is at 675 Massachusetts Ave., Arlington, 339-368-7264.

In anticipation of another winter walloping, here are a couple of sales you won't need to trek out to: Web store Kit Mitchell will have its stylish country-esque wares marked down 20-70 percent beginning tomorrow. The selection includes Harris tweed bags, tartan stoles, and other Scottish-flavored finds are rounded out by Libeco linens, Beekman 1802 goat milk soaps, and Peter Beaton sailor shirts and totes. Free standard shipping offered (within the continental U.S.). The sale should run until around Feb. 6th.

Eastern Mountain Sports is running its semi-annual footwear clearance event (online only), with shoes and boots from Garmont, Montrail. Salomon, Teva, and others at 20-60 percent off. Socks are buy three pairs, get one free. Sale runs while the goods last.

Cynthia Rowley fans, mark your calendars: The Newbury Street store will be hosting a sample sale Thursday through Sunday, with dresses, skirts, tops, necklaces, handbags, and shoes marked down up to 80 percent. (The "color block" dress at left, originally $395, will sell for $149.) Along with the samples, previously marked down pieces from last fall’s collection will be discounted even more steeply. All sales final. Cynthia Rowley is at 164 Newbury St., Boston, 617-587-5240. (The sale will happen during the store's normal business hours.)

Isabel Harvey in Wellesley has everything marked down 30 percent through Sunday. Studded leather cuffs, delicate earrings, and regal necklaces, some designed by owners Alexis and Kimberly Kissam, are among the highlights, though the selection of bags, cashmere wraps, home accessories and gifts (votives, picture frames) is also well worth perusing. The sale is also online (jewelry only); use the code PARTYON for the discount. Isabel Harvey is at 200 Linden St., Wellesley, 781-237-3038.

Much of NOMAD in Cambridge is up to 50 percent off, including clothing, home accessories, and folk art. Prairie Underground cloak and prairie hoodies are 20 percent off; CYDWOQ leather shoes and boots are 30 percent off; winter coats are 40 percent off. The store also carries pieces from BB Dakota, Stewart+Brown, Neesh by D.A.R., and others. The sale runs through the end of the month. NOMAD is at 1741 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, 617-497-6677. www.nomadcambridge.com

Just when Tahiti or, let’s face it, anywhere south of Jersey are sounding good, globetrotters' boutique Passport has most of its luggage and bags marked down 20 percent. Nice weekenders, totes, duffel bags, and all-important rolling luggage from Bric's, Bree, Mandarina Duck, M Z Wallace, Saltbox, and Hayden-Harnett are included. (Some M Z Wallace colors and a few Hayden-Harnett bags are not.) Even if you don’t have a getaway planned for a while, it’s always good to be prepared, no? Sale ends at the end of the month. Passport is at 43 Brattle St., Cambridge, 617-576-0900.

[pictured: Mandarina Duck drop bag, originally $305, now $244 at Passport]

If your budget normally can't support your sartorial preferences, you might try your luck at Fan Pier this weekend, when all fall and winter merchandise gets marked down 50 percent at LouisBoston. Clothes, shoes, outerwear, and handbags from Balenciaga, The Row, Marni (pictured), Jason Wu, and many others will all be on offer. Sale ends the 23rd. Louis is at 60 Northern Ave., Boston, 617-262-6100.

North End boutique Shake The Tree starts its winter sale today, with select clothing, home accessories, and other items marked down up to 40 percent. Find Alice + Olivia dresses, Nik & Mo tops, Wooden Ships sweaters, and Jonathan Adler and Roost table top items and gifts. Shake The Tree is at 67 Salem St., Boston, 617-742-0484.

If you're lucky enough to have money left over after holiday shopping, it's a great time to pamper yourself, given that just about every store, brick-and-mortar or online, is on sale. Until Friday, Sabon's bath products (salts, foams, balls, and mineral powder) and "perfect bath" sets (pictured, normally $95) are 20 percent off (online only). Products from the organic line are also 20 percent off with the code 09ORGANIC20.

Pinkyotto has begun its winter sale, with up to 50 percent off clothing and accessories. Mention the promo code "pinky15" at the register and get an extra 15 percent off any sale item. Pinkyotto is at 156 Newbury St., Boston, 617-236-1238.

Clarks has begun its semi-annual sale, with lots of shoes and boots marked down up to 40 percent. At the Faneuil Hall store, stylish tall boots were marked down to around $100; rubber boots were reduced from $59.99 to $39.99; and plenty of causal and dressier shoes were in the $40-$70 range. The men’s selection includes Gore-Tex shoes and boots and lambskin-lined styles suited for the office. Select children’s shoes and handbags are marked down as well. The sale is expected to run through Feb. 15th. Locations include 200 State St. (Faneuil Hall Marketplace), Boston, 617-261-2320 and the Natick Collection, 508-655-4126. Find others at here.

... a couple of sales to ring in '11. 40 South Street hosts its annual New Year's Day sale tomorrow, with all its vintage duds half-price from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The store's at 40 South St. (natch), Jamaica Plain, 617-522-2066. Second Time Around has all its clothing and accessories (everything but furs) marked down 30-50 percent through tomorrow -- lots of sweaters, boots, jewelry, and more. Find store locations here.

Boutique Eskil in Beacon Hill will be closing its doors early next week, and now has most of its clothing and accessories marked down 40 percent. (Some pieces are 70 percent off.) Cute cropped jackets, sweaters, and dresses from Eva Franco, Burlapp, and hard-to-find Korean labels figure among the selection. Prices are fairly modest: an Eva Franco belted tweed dress, originally $240, was $144 when I stopped in; a pair of black all-cashmere leggings, originally $140, was down to $84. The store's fixtures are also for sale, including a tan faux-suede two-seat couch ($250) and a chandelier ($50). (You might want to check on availability first.) Boutique Eskil is at 98 Charles St., Boston, 617-523-0697.

The weather outside may be a bit too frightful to hit those steep post-Christmas sales, though fortunately, you can shop (at least some of) them online: Nordstrom has women's apparel, shoes, and accessories marked down 33-50 percent, and steep markdowns on men's duds, too, as part of its Half-Yearly Sale; Kenneth Cole and French Connection each have select wares marked down up to 50 percent, while FC is also offering half off items that were previously on sale, with the code 50FCLM. Frette has select bedding, robes, pajamas, and bath items marked down up to 70 percent (save an extra 10 percent with the code WHITE11 online). Who says shopping at home is no fun?

Banana Republic fan? The stores' winter sale is in full swing, with markdowns of up to 40 percent on clothing and accessories. You can shop the sale online as well, and get an extra 25 percent off sale items with the code BRSALE25. (That deal ends on Sunday.) Find Banana Republic stores here.

South End boutique Turtle has its winter sale on, with most items in the store marked down 25 percent. There's a good selection of pieces from Aimee g, Prairie Underground, Elm Design, Feral Childe, and others; select accessories are marked down as well. A sale rack at the back of the store has duds for 60 percent off. Turtle is at 619A Tremont St., Boston, 617-266-2610.The sale should continue through mid-February.

If you've resisted springing for a knockoff of Kate Middleton's engagement ring or trying to recreate her hairstyle, you can now shop at one of the princess-to-be's preferred clothing shops for less. Reiss has started its winter sale, with lots of men's and women's clothing and accessories marked down up to 50 percent. Great party dresses, stylish outerwear and tops, men's sweaters, belts, hats, handbags, and shoes are all included. The sale will continue through New Year's. Reiss is at 132 Newbury St., Boston, 617-262-5800. (The store is also taking orders for the "Nanette" dress, the cream-colored frock the future princess wore in her engagement photos.)

(Pictured: Courtney silk dress, now $227.50 at Reiss)

MY oilcloth has its collection of handbags and wallets marked down 25 percent through Sunday (the 19th). Find wide totes, skinny envelope-style bags, wristlets, laptop cases, and more in assorted rich colors. (They're waterproof, too.) Use the code GIFT25 to get the discount online, or find some of the selections at Portobello Road in Chestnut Hill.

(pictured: chocolate convertible bag, originally $148)

Businesses in downtown Salem are hosting a holiday shopping event tomorrow evening from 6-9, with sweet treats, libations, and lots of discounts. Crunchy Granola Baby is offering 15 percent off storewide; J. Mode has select fall and winter clothing marked down 20-50 percent and is giving a free copy of "Crave Boston: The Urban Girl's Manifesto" with buys of $50 or more; Roost and sister store The Beehive are offering 10 percent off if you wear a holiday sweater or something similarly festive (think reindeer, snowflakes... menorahs?); Modern Millie (pictured) is offering 15 percent off purchases up to $99 and 20 percent off purchases of $100 or more. (Here's a full list of participants and more deals, courtesy of Crunchy Granola Baby.) Shoppers will be entered to win a basket of goodies from the participating businesses.

If you love Alexis Bittar's Lucite pieces or Chan Luu's signature wrap bracelets, you'll be happy to know that they (and other jewelry from the designers' collections) are marked down 20 percent at Folklorica (in Newton Centre) until Dec. 24th. Find bracelets, earrings, and necklaces from Bittar's Elements, Lucite, and Miss Havisham collections along with Chan Luu's necklaces and cashmere/silk scarves (along with the wrap bracelets, of course). Folklorica is at 61 Union St., Newton, 617-630-1815.

North End boutique Twilight is offering a different deal each week for the next three weeks. Until Sunday, accessories are 15 percent off when you buy one, 20 percent off when you buy two, and 30 percent off when you buy three or more.

Select J.Crew men's and women's outerwear is 30 percent off in-store and online today through Wednesday night. The selection includes leather, puffers, trench coats and more. Find store locations here.

(Pictured: cocoon concerto coat, $206.50 at www.jcrew.com)

Barneys' winter sale began this week, with select clothing, shoes, and accessories marked down up to 40 percent. As of last night, pickings at the Copley Place store were still good, with lots of Jil Sander, Dries Van Noten, Paul Smith, 3.1 Phillip Lim, and others. Be sure to spend time at the shoe racks on the first floor. Barneys is at Copley Place (617-385-3300) and The Mall at Chestnut Hill (617-969-5354).

If you've still got holiday shopping to do and are looking to avoid the malls, mark your calendar for next Wednesday (Dec. 8th), when lots of South End retailers will be offering discounts of up to 20 percent from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. as part of the neighborhood's annual holiday stroll. Some restaurants, too, will be offering one-night deals; the list of participants (courtesy of Washington Gateway Main Streets) includes 570 Market, Aquitaine, Aunt Sadie's, Bark Place, Bead + Fiber, Boomerangs Special Edition, diseńo | bos, Flock, Flour, Foodie's Urban Market, Galeria Cubana, Gallardo Works, Gaslight, Gifted, Hudson, J.E.M., Kiwi Baby, Lekker, Looc, M. Flynn Accessories, Metropolis, Michele Mercaldo Jewelry, Michelle Willey, Mohr & McPherson, Motley, Myers+Chang, Patch NYC Shop, Polka Dog Bakery, POPS Restaurant, Posh on Tremont, Restoration Resources, Sara Campbell LTD, Skoah, Sooki, South End Athletic Company, South End Buttery, Stephen Baumbach, Stir, Tadpole, Turtle, Uniform, Union Bar and Grille, Upper Crust, Laura Preshong, D Scale, Charles Tersolo, Face Facts Healing Spa and Escape Salon & Spa.

On Friday night from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., North End shops, galleries, and design studios host their annual Buon Natale Holiday Shopping Stroll, with many of the participants offering discounts. We're told Shake The Tree will have clothing marked down 20 percent; Acquire will have all ornaments at 15 percent off; and The Wine Bottega will have wine marked down 10 percent (if three or more bottles, then 20 percent, mix or match). Find the complete list of participating businesses here (see the flyer on the right). Pick up a stroll "passport," get it stamped at all of the shops, and enter to win a gift basket full of goodies provided by the shops.

If you're able to do a bit of online shopping today, here are a few deals to get you started: AllSaints has most of its clothing and accessories marked down 25 percent; Ann Taylor is offering 40 percent off in-store and online (use the code MONDAY online); Armani Exchange is offering 25 percent off and free shipping online. If you're into theater, check out ArtsEmerson's one-day sale today: Tickets for the first two performances of every show from January to April are $25. See the website or call 617-824-8000 to buy.

[Photo: PSY, at the Cutler Majestic Theatre Jan. 25th- Jan. 30th (Arts Emerson). Photo by David Poulin]

As you make your Thanksgiving preparations and post-holiday shopping lists, here's a list of just some of the Black Friday deals you'll be able to scoop up if you're quick:

At Legacy Place, Gap (opening at 6 a.m.) and Banana Republic (opening at 8 a.m.) will be offering 40 percent off purchases until noon on Friday, and then 25 percent off until 10 p.m. Orvis will have men's watches marked down 25 percent until Christmas Eve.

Target (opening at 4 a.m. on Friday) will have a Westinghouse 40-inch LCD high-def TV for $298 (originally $549.99), a TomTom XL335T for $79 (originally $189.99), and a Sony wireless-ready Blu-Ray player for $99 (regularly $179.99). These deals are in-store only; find others here.

At Macy's, sterling silver diamond pendant, earrings and bracelet sets, normally $400, will be $99 each; select coffee, tea, and espresso makers will be 40 percent off; Clarks cold-weather boots will be half off; and a 5-piece TAG Fairfield luggage set, normally $200, will be $49.99, among many other deals.

Staples will have HP notebooks for $299.98-$499.98 (with discount and rebate) on Friday and a host of early-bird specials (starting at 6 a.m.) including a Samsung WEP450 Bluetooth headset for $4.99 after rebate (normally $29.99) and Omnitech 11-inch digital picture frames for $69.99 (originally $139.99). Good online deals are promised for tomorrow as well.

At Neiman Marcus, spend $100 or more between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Friday and get a $50 gift card (which must be used by Dec. 5th).

French Connection will have select men’s and women’s outerwear and sweaters marked down up to 40 percent on Friday and select women's dresses marked down up to 50 percent (in-store and online). Use the code BFFCFS and get free shipping on orders over $125.

Second Time Around will have all merchandise except furs marked down 50 percent from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Friday, and 30 percent off through Sunday. (Late sleeper? The Atrium Mall location will be taking half off between 9 and 11 a.m. Friday.)

South End boutique Flock will take 20 percent off all purchases (full-price items only) on Friday. Flock is at 274 Shawmut Ave., 617-391-0222.

Also in the South End, Motley is taking 20 percent off of purchases over $50 on Friday and will give a $10-gift certificate (to use any day other than Friday) for purchases over $100. Motley is at 623 Tremont St., 617-247-6969.

Ku De Ta is offering 20 percent off merchandise (except designer jewelry) Friday through Sunday. (Store opens at 10:30 a.m. on Friday.) Ku De Ta is at 663 East Broadway, 617-269-0008.

TisktiK is offering 10 percent off purchases up to $100 on Friday; 15 percent off purchases between $100 and $250; and 25 percent off purchases over $250. Until Dec. 3rd, a percentage of proceeds will go to Food For Free. TistiK is at 54 Church St., Cambridge, 617-661-0900.

Lucky Brand is offering $30 off of full-price jeans in-store through Dec. 1st and online through Sunday. Find stores here.

At Utrecht Art Supplies, get 40 percent off on canvas, paint, and paper products Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Find locations here.

If you're looking for fancy bling, Ultra Diamonds is hosting a scratch-off game Friday morning through Sunday evening (at 7 p.m.) with discount codes toward purchases.

Treesje is offering 20 percent off its handbags and accessorie online purchases Friday through Monday.

From Friday through Sunday, Olive Green Apparel is offering 20 percent off its eco-friendly mittens, hats, and scarves with the code BlackFriday. Also, Framingham-based Nancy's Gone Green will offer 15 percent off eco-friendly wares from Bahar Shahpar, Linda Loudermilk, Dyer Maker Studio Scarves, and others on Friday, and an additional 15 percent with the code GREENWEEKEND.

If battling mall crowds isn't your idea of a fun on Black Friday, what may be more irresistible are the deals at smaller stores. Hudson (South End and Wellesley) will be offering 15 percent off in-stock lighting and textiles (bedding, pillows, throws, more); 10 percent off in-stock casegoods, upholstery, and accessories; and 20 percent off custom casegood and upholstery orders Friday through Sunday. Find locations here. South End boutique Turtle will be offering 25-50 percent off designer duds from Elm, Prairie Underground, Aimee g, and others Friday through Monday. Who says all holiday shopping has to be for other people? Turtle is at 619A Tremont St., Boston, 617-266-2610.

(Pictured: Delano chair at Hudson)

With four short days before Black Friday, you might already have some sort of shopping plan in place. If you want a real head start, many of the stores at Wrentham Village Premium Outlets will be opening at midnight (as in, don't even bother cleaning up from Thursday's meal) and will have their best deals in the pre-dawn hours. Among them: Converse will be marking down total purchases 40 percent until 6 a.m. and then 25 percent until 10 p.m. (up to $400, with the discount); DKNY will be offering 60 percent off until 8 a.m. and then 50 percent off through Sunday; and Restoration Hardware will take 30 percent off until 8 a.m. and 20 percent off through Sunday. See the complete list of Wrentham outlet deals here.

Rising early on a Saturday morning is no easy feat, no matter how worthy the reason. Luckily, to hit West Concord's annual Early Bird Sale tomorrow morning, you won't even need to change out of your PJs (though you might need some coffee before driving over). Stores including Debra's Natural Gourmet, Merlin's Silver Star, and Noa Jewelry, Fine Handcrafts & Gifts will be offering markdowns to sleepwear-clad shoppers, with some stores opening as early as 6 a.m. (Most are on Commonwealth Avenue; all are in short walking, or sleepwalking, distance from one another). Find details and other participants here.

If you haven't been to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in a while, this weekend is a good time to go: Today through Sunday, gift shop items are 10-50 percent off (the discount for members starts at 25 percent), and holiday-inspired desserts in the museum cafe are $3 each (normally $7). The shop's selection includes jewelry, note cards, scarves, pottery, prints, and more. The shop and cafe will be closing in mid-December until early 2012, while the museum's new wing is being built, making this something of a lastl hurrah, at least for now.

If you choose to become a member of the museum this weekend, you'll save $10 on the yearly fee (normally $60 and up) and have your entrance fee for the day ($12) reimbursed. If you can't make it this weekend, you can get the discount through the end of the year by calling the membership office, 617-566-5643. Find other details here. The museum is at 280 The Fenway, Boston, 617-566-1401.

If you're looking for just the right hat to complement your fall/pre-winter ensemble, Salmagundi has single caps and wool felt and fur felt hats (meaning the last ones of their kind, one size left of each) marked down 30 percent tomorrow through Friday. Look for the singles rack, and see if the hat for you is on it. Salmagundi is at 765 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, 617-522-5047.

Neiman Marcus kicks off its First Call sale today, with markdowns of up to 40 percent on select designer duds, shoes, accessories, and more. The best pickings are for those who can make it in today (or can spend some time on the website): Lots of additional pieces from Diane von Furstenburg, Alice & Olivia, Elizabeth and James, Tory Burch, and others will be 40 percent off as well. (They return to regular price tomorrow.) Neiman Marcus is at Copley Place and the Natick Collection; find phone numbers and hours here. The First Call sale ends on the 16th.

(Pictured: DVF metallic jacket, normally $545)

If you're looking for a gift for a golf- or tennis-playing gal in your life, check Ame & Lulu's site, where all orders are 10 percent off throughout November. (Use the code NOV10 or NOVSALE.) There's also plenty of non-sporting fare: cute totes, toiletry bags, diaper bags, pet accessories, and more.

Nordstrom's big sale for women and kids began yesterday, with markdowns of around 25-50 percent on lots of clothing, accessories, and shoes. Ladies, find BCBG, Elizabeth and James, Enzo Angiolini, James Perse, and others; for the little ones, find Adidas, Juicy Couture, and Merrell, to name a few. Sale ends on the 14th. Find Nordstrom locations here.

Now that Halloween is over, we can all start thinking about... holiday shopping. (I haven't heard any Christmas carols yet this year, but am giving it a couple more days.) If the gift-buying spirit should move you this weekend, Salem shop Roost will have most items marked down 20 percent on Saturday to celebrate its first anniversary. The selection includes budget-friendly handmade jewelry, coasters, bath and body goods, and lots more. Roost is at 40 Front St., Salem, 978-744-4663.

If you won't have time to visit a pumpkin patch before Halloween, you may be heartened to find one at at least two stores near you (bearing discounts, no less). From now through Sunday, Moxie's Boston and Wellesley shops will have pumpkins for the picking, each indicating a discount between 10 and 30 percent to use toward your purchase (boots, pumps, bags, and more). The fine print: the markdown can't be combined with other promotions. Moxie is at 51 Charles St., Boston, 617-557-9991, and 24 Church St., Wellesley, 781-235-1833.

Arlington kids' boutique Wild Child has most items marked down 20 percent off most items today through Sunday. Find clothing and shoes by Zutano, Tea Collection, Deux par Deux, Laughing Out Loud, and others. (Clothing runs to size 6/7). Although car seats and strollers will not be on sale, stroller accessories from BOB, Phil & Teds, UPPAbaby, and others will be included. Wild Child is at 5 Medford St., Arlington, 781-483-3566.

British import AllSaints has select duds marked down up to 25 percent as part of its mid-season sale. Find dresses, tops, denim, and more. The sale is online and at 122 Newbury St., Boston, 617-517-0894.

J.Crew has started its fall sale, with select clothing and accessories marked down up to 40 percent. There's a robust selection online right now, including thermal tops and flannels, blazers, cords, dresses, and very steeply discounted warm-weather wares. No word yet on an end date. Find J.Crew stores here.

Plenty of retailers are thinking pink this month, rolling out special products or hosting events to benefit breast cancer research. The Wrentham Village Outlets have gotten in on the act, asking shoppers to text the word PINK to 90999* to donate $10 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Your reward? A savings card with discounts at Brooks Brothers, Coach, David Yurman, Joe’s Jeans, Theory and others that can be redeemed this Saturday and Sunday (the 23rd or 24th) between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. (In order to get the card, you'll have to show the receipt on your phone at a registration table.) On-site donations by cash or check will also be accepted.

First, there was Restaurant Week. Then, there was Spa Week. Now, there's Boutique Week, the first of which launches this coming Sunday (the 24th). The deal: participating shops must offer at least 25 percent off at least half of their merchandise. (I'm guessing they might set up special "boutique week" racks.) At this time, around 30 area boutiques had signed on (see the list here). In order to get the discounts next week, you'll need an access code, which you can get by signing up (see the left side of the page).
If it helps you feel even better about shopping, each of the participating shops must donate a small sum to Dress for Success.

(Pictured: participating boutique French Dressing in Beacon Hill)

The Faneuil Hall Victoria's Secret will have discounts on its Pink line of products (geared toward a somewhat younger set) this Saturday. Spend $50 and get $10 off; spend $75 and get $15 off; spend $100 and save $25. (Get a free panty, too, with a purchase.) There will also be free Pink bra fittings; no appointments needed. It all happens from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Victoria's Secret is at 4 Faneuil Hall Marketplace, 617-248-9761.

Got plans for Thursday evening? If not, you might want to head over to CambridgeSide Galleria, which will be hosting a "Passport To Style" event complete with a fall fashion show, free cocktails and gourmet treats, store discounts, and a generously filled swag bag. It costs $20 to get in, but all of the proceeds go to charity (Rosie's Place, Room to Grow, or Strong Women, Strong Girls). The event happens from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Find all the details and register here.

As I'll be on vacation for the rest of the week, I leave you with three things to consider over the next few days: Spa Week rolls back into town next Monday, with $50-treatments at a host of area spas, salons, and skin-care outfits. (Check out the list of Massachusetts participants here.) It's best to book soon before slots fill up. If you're near Hanover, Charles David Salon & Spa is offering a free wash and style with one of its Spa Week treatments. The week officially ends Oct. 17th, though at least a few of the spas will be extending their deals.

National Jean Company starts its Columbus Day sale on Wednesday, with 25 percent off everything (including items already on sale) in the Newton and Wellesley stores. Brands include Hudson, Paige, J Brand, and Citizens of Humanity, along with Elizabeth and James, Splendid, Vince, and many others. The sale will run through next Monday. The stores are at 34 Langley Rd., Newton, 617-969-2888, and 180 Linden St., Wellesley, 781-489-3500.

REI starts its fall sale on Friday, with select clothing, footwear, and gear marked down 25 percent and Thule racks marked down 20 percent. Just a few of the specific items that will be included are REI-brand down sleeping bags, Marmot PreCip jackets, and REI Shuksan jackets. Apparel from Patagonia, Columbia, and many others as well. The sale will run through Oct. 17th; find store locations here.

Lord & Taylor has dresses marked down 25 percent, sportswear and most fall coats marked down 40 percent, fall suits for $150, and other discounts as part of its anniversary sale, which runs through Monday. Tomorrow, the first 200 shoppers at each store get a $15 gift card valid for most sale and full-price items (Uggs, make-up, fragrances, and some other items are excluded; call a store for details). Find Lord & Taylor locations here.

Lucky Brand has an assortment of tops, jeans, and dresses on sale, including new fall items marked down up to 50 percent. Guys' and gals' jeans start at $29.99 online; there are good markdowns on some of the hoodies and Western shirts as well. Sale ends October 6th. Find Lucky Brand stores here.

Pictured: Motozuki jacket, $59.99 (originally $99.50)

If you can make it over to Stellabella Toys today or tomorrow, you'll find most things marked down 20 percent for its semi-annual sale. (Exceptions include Playmobil and Lego, baby strollers, Ergo Baby carriers, Stokke chairs, and special orders.) The sale is at all four of its locations.

On Monday evening, Roost and sister store the Beehive (pictured) host an open house with refreshments, T-shirt giveaways, free chair massages, a 10 percent discount store(s)-wide, and a drawing for a $100-gift certificate. The fun happens from 5-8 p.m. Roost and the Beehive are at 38-40 Front St., Salem, 978-744-4663 (Roost) and 978-744-0663 (the Beehive).

If you're looking for something to do with the family this weekend and aren't too far from Marblehead, you might want to try the town's annual Fall Festival, where there will be horse-drawn hayrides, an artisan craft fair, mask decorating, and sidewalk sales. Around 40 businesses are participating as of now, including Bus Stop, Hip Baby Gear, Madam Had'em, Marblehead Toy Shop,and Chet's Video, just to name a handful. Find a complete schedule of events here.

...today might be your lucky day. MY Oilcloth has some of its totes, messenger bags, and satchels, along with a few wristlets and iPod cases, on clearance. (If the name doesn't ring a bell, the products might look familiar: They're at Didriks, Portobello Road, and the Neiman Marcus website, among other places.) The satchel pictured, originally $118, is now $49; markdowns range from around 30-80 percent. The sale is today only.

MDF (or Modern Designer Furnishings) has markdowns now on select jewelry, home accessories, and more. (Head to the second floor to find them.) Jewelry from sister store and neighbor Motto is 40 percent off; find pieces by Saundra Messinger, Dori Csengeri, Miguel Ases, and others. Handbags (not a large selection, but a nice one) by Kisim and others are 50 percent off. Find assorted home goods including ceramic dishes, decorative picture frames, and more marked down around 40 percent. The sale should go through the end of the month. MDF is at 19 Brattle St., Cambridge, 617-491-2789.

An update on yesterday's post: Cibeline is continuing its one-day sale through Monday. (Already marked-down wraparound dresses, tops, skirts, and handbags will be an additional 20 percent off.) The store's at 120 Charles St., Boston, 617-742-0244.

Downtown Marblehead accessories shop DS Designs just started its summer sale, with select jewelry, handbags, scarves, and more marked down 30-40 percent. Pretty, spacious totes; brightly colored bangles and beaded necklaces; OKA b. sandals and more. The store also carries Bora rubber band watches for $30 and wallet-friendly home goods and gifts (including Scott Potter-ish decoupage soap dishes and small trays for $12-$15). Sale ends Labor Day. DS Designs is at 158 Washington St., Marblehead, 781-639-2336.

Need some camping gear for the fall or looking to save on a new bike or canoe? REI has markdowns of up to 30 percent as part of its Labor Day sale, which runs through next Monday. Find tents, backpacks, sporty clothing, Chariot carriers, bikes and biking gear, canoes, kayaks, paddling gear, and more. (We found this selection online; you may want to call your nearest store if you're thinking of shopping in person.)

It looks like clear skies for this weekend's sidewalk sale in the South End, which starts tomorrow. Stores including Lekker, Diseno, Tadpole, Boomerangs: Special Edition, and Turtle will have big markdowns on home accessories, clothing, toys, and lots of other goods. Turtle will have bins of items priced at $39 and $49, along with markdowns of up to 75 percent; Tadpole will have clothing, furniture floor models, toys, slings, decor, and more at up to 75 percent off; Lekker, like last weekend, will have tabletop items and other accessories marked down 50-90 percent. Find a complete list of participants here.

If you're anywhere near Cohasset and looking for some end-of-season buys, Pink Tulip Clothes & Accessories has summer wares marked down 30-75 percent. Brands include Chetta B, Bailey44, Muse, and others; there's also a good selection of scarves (pictured). Shoes and sandals by OKA b., Yellow Box, Nicole, and others are marked down 30 percent. The sale should last for the next few weeks. Pink Tulip is at 15 Depot Court, Cohasset Village, 339-337-3663.

If you've got a penchant for high-end labels, you'll want to log on to theOutnet.com, the outlet arm of luxury clothing site Net-A-Porter. There will be discounts of up to 85 percent on Stella McCartney, Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs, Valentino, and lots more. You may find a Donna Karan distressed leather satchel bag (pictured), originally $1735, for $260, or some Sigerson Morrison embroidered wedge sandals, originally $795, for $120.

Pinkyotto has markdowns of 30-50 percent on its characteristically playful, dainty spring and summer pieces: floral sundresses, polka-dotted frocks, trim jackets, and kitty tunics (in gray and cream, each adorned with cats in assorted colors). If you're up for more substantial shopping, pieces are buy-two, get-one-free -- which applies to new, full-price fall wares as well as those on sale. (Accessories, too.) Pinkyotto is at 156 Newbury Street, Boston, 617-236-1238.

With time ticking down before school starts again, West Roxbury shop Kalembar Dune is offering students a 25 percent discount (with ID) for the month of August. The shop has lots of budget-friendly furnishings and accessories, including vintage barware and tableware, funky '60s-style coffee tables, framed prints, vintage signs, lamps, mirrors, and more substantial pieces, like the oak dresser pictured ($275, without the discount). Kalembar Dune is at 170 Spring St., West Roxbury, 617-327-5898.

[Photo credit: Kit Ramey]

If you're thinking ahead to fall, you can save 20 percent on new Lucky Brand arrivals until tonight (online only). Selection includes dresses, handbags, and men's and women's jeans, tops, shoes, sweaters, and jackets. (Sale items are excluded.)

(At left: Lucky Brand's surplus messenger bag, originally $119, $95.20 with today's discount)

Stel's is having a warehouse sale now through Sunday, with duds from APC, Alexander Wang, Nom de Guerre, Steven Alan, and others marked down up to 75 percent. Get there quickly.

In the South End, Motley has a number of deals this weekend: Bathing suits are half off; sandals are buy-two-pairs, get-one-free; Nixon watches are 10 percent off; and, last but not least, any purchase of more than $50 will be discounted 20 percent.
Stel's is at 334 Newbury St., Boston, 617-262-3348. Motley is at 623 Tremont St., Boston, 617-247-6969.

Good has kicked off its summer sale, with jewelry, handbags, and home goods marked down 50 percent. Among the finds: John Derian plates, platters, and cache pots; butterfly shadow boxes from Them (pictured); jewelry from Jane Diaz, Catherine Weitzman, and Melissa Joy Manning; lighting; and antique and vintage home accessories. The sale will run at least until the end of the month. Pieces will be added throughout, so you might want to stop in a couple of times. Good is at 88 Charles St., Boston, 617-722-9200.

Hudson has kicked off its semi-annual sale, with in-stock items marked down anywhere from 15-75 percent. (Custom upholstery and casegood orders are 25 percent off; custom bedding orders are 20 percent off.) If you're unfamiliar with the stores, there are lots of lovely furnishings, home accessories, and gift ideas (lighting, textiles, glassware, candles, vintage items, and more). Hudson is at 312 Shawmut Ave., Boston, 617-292-0900, and 61A Central St., Wellesley, 781-239-0025.

The Garment District hosts its semi-annual half-off sale today through Sunday, which includes all the vintage and contemporary wares on the second floor and Boston Costume on the first. (Dollar-A-Pound+, Internet sales, and rental costumes are not included.) If you're looking for some wallet-friendly wardrobe additions or to get a jump on Halloween, now's a good time. The Garment District and Boston Costume are at 200 Broadway, Cambridge, 617-876-5230 and 888-482-1632.

South Boston boutique Ku De Ta, which has been closed since a fire outside the store in May, is hosting a sale starting at noon today at the South Boston Online building. Dresses, tops, and denim that were inside the store at the time of the fire (undamaged, but left with a smoky smell) have been specially treated and are now as good as new; they'll all be marked down up to 70 percent. The sale runs until 8 this evening and then from 10 to 7 tomorrow and noon to 6 on Sunday. South Boston Online is at 663 E. Broadway, South Boston.

On Friday and Saturday, and again on August 6th and 7th, businesses in and around Needham center will take part in an "Inside Out" sales event, arranged by the Needham Business Association, with discounts on the sidewalks and inside stores (and eateries). Perennial Designs will be offering a 20 percent discount on everything inside the store and will have items outside for up to 75 percent off (refreshments served, too); Taylor's Stationery will have spring and summer clearance (stationery and gifts) along with discounted 2010 boxed Christmas cards (if you like to plan ahead); Joel's at Needham Square will have glassware, purses, and more marked down 30-40 percent, along with many other discounts; Pollywogs will have spring and summer children's clothing at 60 percent off; and Prelude Gifts will be offering Vera Bradley bags, tabletop items, and more at 50 percent off. Other participants include Bertucci's, Abbott's Frozen Custard, The Closet Exchange, Lola Tortola, Lisa's, Michelson's Shoes, and The Grey Goose. There will be free metered parking all four sale days.

This Saturday from noon to 5 p.m., shops on Hanover, Salem, Parmenter, and Fleet streets will have goodies on sale inside and in some cases, on the sidewalk. This is what's planned:
The Velvet Fly: rack of dresses and tops for $30 and under
High Gear Jewelry: table of pieces for $5 and $10
Shake the Tree: start of semi-annual sale; up to 50 percent off clothing and home and bath accessories
A Matter of Face: complimentary make-up applications from a Paula Dorf artist and 15 percent off Paula Dorf cosmetics
Filthy Rich of Boston: celebrity-inspired flower stud earrings marked down from $16 to $4; select other jewelry and accessories for around 25 percent off
Casa di Stile: select spring/summer merchandise marked down up to 75 percent (for ongoing summer sale); 10 percent off all full-priced merchandise (Saturday only)
Twilight: summer sale; select casual and dressier pieces for up to 75 percent off
Injeanius: summer sale; select
spring/summer and pre-fall jeans, tops, and accessories for up to 50 percent off
Acquire: semi-annual sale kicks off; 50 percent off select accent furnishings and home and fashion accessories

The North End Gallery will also be taking part.

The Saint Agrippina di Mineo feast will also be happening, if you're into that sort of thing; highlights include Lisa Lisa, Cover Girls, marching bands, and lots of food.

(Photo: David L. Ryan/Globe staff)

A Good Yarn in Brookline Village is having its 10th anniversary sale today through Sunday, with everything in the store at least 25 percent off. (Some previously marked down items will be up to 60 percent off.) The store carries yarns of just about all types as well as needles, patterns, and magazines. There will also be daily drawings and additional deals throughout the sale. A Good Yarn is at 4 Station St., Brookline, 617-731-4900.

Banana Republic, Gap, and Old Navy are offering 30 percent off online purchases with the checkout code SAVE30 today and tomorrow, along with free shipping on orders of $100 or more. (The offer isn't valid on some things, including Keds, Converse, and babyGap and GapKids sleepwear.) Also, Lord & Taylor is offering up to 75 percent off its spring and summer clearance items (online, it's mostly dresses and ladies' tops) and half off ladies' raincoats and faux leather jackets (online only).

Gothic chic purveyor AllSaints Spitalfields has select items marked down up to 50 percent: tops, dresses, tops that could work as dresses, and Ts and button-down shirts for blokes. (Some accessories, too.) There's a decent selection now, though I'd guess the racks will start thinning soon. AllSaints is at 122 Newbury St., Boston, 617-517-0894.

Newton Centre shop Folklorica has most of its jewelry, handbags, and other goodies marked down 20-75 percent for its summer sale. Jewelry designers include Alexis Bittar, Chan Luu, Patricia Locke, and Philip Crangi. On my visit, Tano bags were at 20 percent off and Hobo wallets, at 30 percent off; scarves, wall clocks, and other wall hangings are also discounted. The sale will run through mid-August. Folklorica is at 61 Union St., Newton Centre, 617-630-1815.

Until the end of the month, Fire Opal has select clothing, jewelry, and home accessories marked down up to 50 percent. Find clothing from Rina Zin, Lola of San Francisco, and gr.dano; jewelry from Alexis Bittar and Just Jules; vases by KleinReid; and ceramics by Aaron Sober and others. (Selection varies somewhat between the stores, so if you're looking for something in particular, it's best to call ahead.) Fire Opal is at 683 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, 617-524-0262, and 320 Harvard St., Brookline, 617-739-9066.

Sad to hear that the ever ahead-of-the-curve Stil will be closing its doors at the end of the month. (Stil Studio at Legacy Place will remain open.) On a visit last week, most clothing, shoes, and bags were anywhere from 20-70 percent off, including some fantastic finds from European and stateside labels such as Munthe plus Simonsen, Hoss Intropia, Nirva, and others. On Wednesday, the 28th, Stil, along with Portobello Road and Gretta Luxe (both of which are staying open), will have a 50-to-70-percent off sale at Alibi Bar + Lounge from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Stil is at The Mall at Chestnut Hill, 617-527-7845.

Just when fall is likely the farthest thing from your mind, Nordstrom is offering special prices on new fall clothes, shoes, and accessories for men, women, and kids during its two week-long anniversary sale, which started today. Find Guess, Sam Edelman, Nike, Rag & Bone (some stores), Trina Turk, Kooba, and many more. Come August 2nd, the prices will get yanked up. Find Nordstrom locations here.

Who doesn't love a grand opening party, especially in this economy? The owners of the still new-ish home goods and accessories spot Roost are unveiling their new gift-and-card shop, The Beehive, on Monday evening from 5-8 with drinks, eats, and 10 percent discounts storewide. (The new store is connected to Roost, and the owners will be offering the markdown at Roost as well.) Find The Beehive and Roost at 38 and 40 Front St., Salem, 978-744-0663 and 978-744-4663.

If you're of the knitting persuasion, you might want to hit the sale on now at Seed Stitch Fine Yarn, also on downtown Salem's Front Street. Overstock yarns are 30-75 percent off; select books, patterns, and garment samples are marked down as well. Seed Stitch is at 21 Front St., 978-744-5557. (Find hours on the website.)

Hingham women's boutique Gia B. is now offering an additional 10 percent off summer merchandise that's already marked down 40-50 percent. Find Diane von Furstenberg, Trina Turk, James Perse, Nicole Miller, and BCBG. Gia B is in the Derby Street Shoppes (Suite 131), 781-749-5510. Meanwhile, Brookline boutique ZIA has its summer sale on now, with clothing marked down 20-50 percent. Designers include Anett Rostel, Aventures des Toiles, Suzi Chin, and Petit Pois. Jewelry is also 20-50 percent off; handbags and shoes are 30 percent off. ZIA is at 1054 Beacon St., Brookline, 617-566-1990.

[Pictured: Trina Turk dress at Gia B.]

If you live out near Framingham and could use a Savers fix, you're in luck: The newest Mass. addition to the thrift chain opened its doors there last Thursday. The store has well-organized racks of men's, women's, kids', and home wares; sample prices include $3.99-$8.49 for most men's button-down shirts; most women's shoes for under $10; women's summer dresses for $3.99-$9.99 (a few go for a bit more); books for $0.69-$2.99. Clothing-wise, Gap, Old Navy, and Banana Republic are amply represented; spend some time in the racks, though, and you might come away with some good surprises. (There's also a donation center on site; for each pound of clothing or other items given, Savers pays the Epilepsy Foundation.) Savers is at 500 Cochituate Rd., Framingham, 508-875-0225.

The annual ArtBeat festival comes to Davis Square Friday night and Saturday, with live performances, craft vendors, food -- and discounts at some of the area shops. Among them: Magpie will offer up to 50 percent off select items including T-shirts, bags, and jewelry; Suneri Boutique will have bins of deeply discounted items, along with its ongoing half-off summer sale; Davis Squared will be handing out coupons around the square for 10 percent off anything in the store (good Saturday only); and furniture shop Sunshine Lucy's will offer 15 percent off all accessories except framed prints.

Find a complete schedule of ArtBeat events here. (Rain dates are Saturday evening and Sunday.)

The spacious Calvin Klein store in the Natick Collection will be closing on the 25th, and right now, almost everything in the store is 70 percent off. On our visit, there was still a good selection within most categories: men's and women's shirts, jackets, pants, accessories, and of course, jeans (sizes are limited in some styles). If you're a CK fan, it's a great time to shop. The Calvin Klein store is in the Natick Collection, second level, 508-651-0492.

Several downtown Waltham shops will be taking part in sidewalk sales this Saturday and each following Saturday until July 31, with markdowns inside and outside of the stores. Among them: The Tea Leaf will have all full-price items (including clothing, tea accouterments, and gifts) marked down 20 percent and out-of-date (but fine) teas at 30 percent off; Gourmet Pottery will have the entire store at 10 percent off (valid on Fridays as well); Waltham Wallpaper & Paint will set out some discounted wallpaper bolts; Marcou Jewelers will be offering 20 percent off Cape Cod jewelry and discounts on estate and bead jewelry; and Edible Arrangements will be giving away chocolate-covered fruit samples and free fruit salads. The town will also be hosting a series of events, many of them free, for Historic Waltham Month; check the calendar here.

Davis Square vintage spot Artifaktori has vintage clothing, housewares, and art (except for artisan handmade pieces) at 15 percent off. A yard sale outside the store, which should run through the weekend, has wares marked down to $1-$5. Yes, it may be hot out, but good things come to those willing to schlep. Artifaktori is at 22a College Ave., Somerville, 617-776-3708.

'Tis the season for summer sales. On Newbury Street, Zara has spring and summer clothing at up to 50 percent off; summer dresses start at $15.99, men's dress shirts are marked down from $59.90 to $39.95, and select pumps and women's sandals are $49.99 (originally $79.90-$99), among other markdowns. Next door, French Connection has its own summer sale on, and down the street, Reiss has clothing and accessories at up to 70 percent off. Zara is at 212-214 Newbury St., 617-236-1414; French Connection is at 206 Newbury St., 617-247-1301; and Reiss is at 132 Newbury, 617-262-5800.

(Pictured: men's Pembroke military jacket from Reiss)

Abigail's Children's Boutique has most of its spring and summer clothes and accessories marked down 30-50 percent. The store carries E-land Kids, Little Joule, Kissy Kissy, Susanne Lively, and more. Girls' sizes run from 0 to 14; boys' run from 0 to 7. The sale should continue through the summer. Abigail's is at 93 Central St., Wellesley, 781-235-3333.

In Newton, Brussels Sprouts Kids has most girls' spring and summer merchandise at 50-70 percent, and women's clothing (tees, tunics, sundresses, more) marked down 50 percent. Brussels Sprouts Kids is at 855 Washington St., Newton, 617-244-9832.

French Lessons kicks off its half-yearly sale tomorrow, with select spring and summer clothes and accessories at all five of its area boutiques marked down 40-70 percent. The stores carry a mix of chic casual and dressier items from Milly, Theory, Trina Turk, Michael Stars, and others, and denim from AG, Citizens, and 7 For All Mankind. The sale will last for four weeks, but selection will likely dwindle quickly. French Lessons locations include 180 Linden St., Wellesley, 781-235-9090, and 7 Thompson St, Winchester, 781-729-0456. Find others here.

Banana Republic kicked off its summer sale over the weekend, with select men's and women's clothing and accessories marked down up to 40 percent. Online, there's a bit of everything -- trousers, light sweaters, dresses, jewelry, shoes, and blazers (not all of the markdowns are very steep). Locations include Copley Place, 617-867-0400 (men's) and 617-424-7817 (women's), and The Mall at Chestnut Hill, 617-796-9815. Find others here.

Macy's is offering what it's calling its "lowest prices of the season" today and tomorrow on home accessories, furniture, clothing, and more. It looks like bedding collections are 30-50 percent off; bath towels, rugs, and accessories are 20-40 percent off; shoes are up to 50 percent off, to name a few categories. Clearance items are an extra 25 percent off online. Find Macy's locations here.

Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale for Men starts tomorrow, with markdowns on clothes, shoes, and accessories by Hugo Boss, Cole Haan, Diesel, Faconnable, Lacoste, and others. (The sale will be held at all area Nordstrom stores, excluding Rack locations; my mention of the sale in today's "g" said it would not be held at the South Shore Plaza store. Sorry for the confusion.) You can find the stores near you here. Sale ends June 29th.

French Connection has lots of its men's and women's apparel and accessories marked down up to 50 percent, including tops, bottoms, dresses, jackets, sweaters, shoes, and more. You can shop the sale online, or find store locations here. Harvard Square women's boutique LOOKS kicks off its semi-annual sale today, with markdowns of 20-40 percent on everything in the store through Sunday. The selection includes Aimee g, Velvet, Lilith, Three Dots, and more. (On Monday, spring/summer items will remain marked down 40 percent, but newer merchandise will go back to full price.) LOOKS is at 11-13 Holyoke St., Cambridge, 617-491-4251. Last but not least, The Studio starts its biannual sale tomorrow, with steep markdowns on Christopher Blue, Nic + Zoe, Aldo Martin's, Not Your Daughter's Jeans, and more. The store opens tomorrow at 8 a.m. The Studio is at 233 Harvard St., Brookline, 617-738-5091.

(Pictured: "Game On" dress at usa.frenchconnection.com)

Brooks Brothers is offering 40 percent off on a different group of men's items through the end of the week. Today, the discount applies to men's shoes, belts, and leather accessories. Tomorrow will be ties; Thursday will be men's personal accessories (including fragrances and jewelry); Friday will be all men's knits (including Polos); and Saturday will be all men's sweaters. Find store locations here. The sale is online as well.

Neighboring stores Wild Child and Helena's of Arlington will be setting out lots of clothing and accessories for half off tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. There will be babies' and children's clothes (up to size 7) from Patagonia, Wes and Willy, Tea Collection, Catimini, Imps & Elfs, and others, and women's selections from Tulle, Velvet, Christopher Blue, Jules & Jim (maternity), and more. Wild Child and Helena's are at 397 Massachusetts Ave., Arlington, 781-483-3566 (Wild Child) and 781-483-3055 (Helena's).

Barneys has a good selection of designer duds marked down up to 40 percent. At the Copley Place store, sales racks of Alexander Wang, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Richard Chai Love, Theory, and others are neatly designated (and many of the items were right around 40 percent off). Handbags, shoes, jewelry and other covetable accessories figure among the sale items as well. Barneys is at Copley Place, 617-385-3300, and The Mall at Chestnut Hill, 617-969-5354. The sale is also online.

Pictured: 3.1 Phillip Lim trench coat in snakeprint jacquard for $385 (was $650)

The Brookline-based MY oilcloth hosts a sample sale this Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Inner Space in Brookline Village. Stylish handbags, totes, wallets, and other accessories will be up to 75 percent off. The line, run by two moms named Michele and Yvette (hence, the MY), will debut in the Neiman Marcus catalog this fall. If you can't make it to the sale, it will also happen on the MY oilcloth website (tomorrow only).

Hanna Andersson's twice-yearly sale is on now, with dresses, shorts, swimsuits, sleepwear, and more at up to half off. Online, there's plenty of colorful tops and sundresses along with hoodies, windbreakers, socks, sandals, and clogs (the company's roots are Swedish, after all). The sale is also at the Natick Collection store, 508-647-3711, and the Burlington Mall store, 781-221-1333.

Young fashionistas seeking inspiration can head to Natick Collection's Form to Fashion Grand Finale tonight for a runway show featuring up-and-coming student designers followed by discounts at some of the Collection's stores. The Grand Finale highlights the winners of the Neiman Marcus- and Boston Magazine-sponsored Form to Fashion series, during which students from Mount Ida College, School of Fashion Design, Lasell College, and Framingham State had their designs displayed at the Collection over a three-month period while customers voted on their favorites. Tonight's runway show, hosted by Channel 5's Bianca de la Garza, starts at 7; following the show, stores including Apple, J. Crew, Juicy Couture, Madewell, and Rugby will be offering discounts to students with college IDs. (The apparel stores will be offering 15 percent off full-priced merchandise; Madewell will extend the deal to promotional items as well.) Natick Collection is at 1245 Worcester St., 508-655-4800.

If you have the gumption to drive out to Wrentham, Off 5th (Saks's outlet store) has everything marked down an extra 20-40 percent until June 8th. Kids' clothing, denim, and contemporary sportswear are 20 percent off; shoes, handbags, dresses, and men's sports coats and dress pants are 25 percent off; jewelry, watches, and men's dress shirts and ties are marked down 30 percent; and men's suits and women's designer sportswear are 40 percent off. Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th is at 1048 South St., Wrentham (in the Wrentham Village Premium Outlets), 508-384-9309. www.saksfifthavenue.com

After 38 years of outfitting college students, vintage devotees, and those looking for a good Halloween costume, Harvard Square spot Oona's will be closing this coming weekend. (The store will reopen under new ownership in August.) Most items in the store are now marked down 50 percent (consigned goods and new items -- packaged Halloween wigs, for instance -- are not). Find dresses, hats, petticoats, leather jackets, men's shirts, and more. On Friday and Saturday, rugs, racks, mannequins, displays, and whatever clothing remains will be sold yard-sale style (i.e., 50 cents or $1 for many of the items). Oona's is at 1210 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, 617-491-2654.

Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale for women and kids starts today, with markdowns on clothes, shoes, handbags, and other accessories. (Guys get their sale in June.) Online, most things seem to be marked down anywhere from 33-50 percent, and, as the sale is in its early hours, there's lots. The sale is online and in stores (except the new South Shore Plaza location).

It's a rainy Wednesday evening, but the weekend ahead promises sunshine and some good sales (a few of which you can read about in this week's Bargain Bin column). Grand has announced that everything in the store will be 25 percent off this Saturday and Sunday, in celebration of its soon-to-be cohabitation with Poor Little Rich Girl. (Yep, that Poor Little Rich Girl. Starting in early June, if all goes as planned, you'll be able to get your stylish home knickknacks and fun vintage and consignment duds all under the same roof.)

Grand is at 374 Somerville Ave., Somerville, 617-623-2429.

I was sad to learn that home design store Vessel is getting ready to close at the end of the month. On a visit yesterday, items included dinnerware, utensils, cutting boards, tables, chairs, and skincare products marked down up to 70 percent (quite a few categories, though the stock seems to be going quickly). Vessel is at 125 Kingston St., Boston, 617-292-0982.

Perhaps you have a bag of clothes to be donated, but haven't found the time just yet to cart it out of the house. From Friday until Sunday, x-hale boutique will be offering 20 percent off of purchases in exchange for at least two pieces of gently worn women's (including maternity) and kids' clothing. The clothing will go to the Women's Lunch Place. x-hale carries a little bit of everything: Lululemon workout wear, Alice & Trixie dresses, Rich & Skinny jeans, Cordani shoes, and more. It's at 25 Lincoln St., Newton, 617-581-6530. Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Daily deal sites and all the other web coupons out there have shown that you rarely have to pay full price for anything anymore, whether it's a hair cut, a meal at an upscale restaurant, or even Botox treatments. You can now add to your daily browsing The DealMap, which aggregates current and soon-to-be-offered deals from Groupon, Goldstar, Eversave, and Restaurant.com, along with discounts from individual stores. Deals are searchable by zip code or city, and though you might find a few repeats (the site is brand new), the variety is broad (discounts on theater and comedy club tickets, self-storage, acupuncture). Those who share deals on the site get points toward gift certificates and freebies.

I'm a fan of J. Crew, but find some of its prices to be farther out of my range than they perhaps need to be. But the website has lots marked down right now as part of its spring sale, and until Sunday, the checkout code EXTRA20 will get you (as implied) an additional 20 percent off. Items include dresses, tops, men's polo shirts, sweaters, shoes, and jewelry; kids' clothes is included, too.

(At left: silk tricotine hope dress, originally $195, now around $80 with extra mark down.)

If you're looking for sweaters or long-sleeved tops, Gap has steep markdowns now. At the Harvard Square store, already discounted merchandise is an extra 40 percent off, so that guys' sweaters are as little as $6.59 ($10.99, plus the extra markdown) and women's basic sweaters (solid blue, black, gray, and other colors) are around $8.39. Wool-blend women's jackets are as low as $32.99, post-discount. Gap is at 15 Brattle St., Cambridge, 617-864-9077. www.gap.com

A few doors down in Harvard Square, the cheerily quirky Black Ink has some bowls, kitchen gadgets, quirky books, and note cards (along with holiday gear, naturally) at half price. (Black Ink is at 5 Brattle St., Cambridge; the Beacon Hill store a 101 Charles St. has a small sale section as well.) 

We hear clear skies are predicted for tomorrow's South End Holiday Night Out, meaning it should be perfect for strolling from retailer to retailer in search of stylish discounts. Looc (12 Union Park St., Boston, 617-357-5333) will take 20 percent off on all clothing; Diseno (409 Harrison Ave., Boston, 617-423-2008) will offer 20 percent off on in-stock items; and Leokadia (667 Tremont St., Boston, 617-247-7463) will be taking 30 percent off its prices. (Find the complete list of participants here.) As a plus, restaurants including Aquitaine and Rocca will be offering up specials for the evening. The fun happens from 4 to 8 p.m.

For the outdoors lover on your list, the online REI Outlet is taking an extra 20 percent off any one item until Thursday. The outlet has ski and snowboarding jackets and gear, camping equipment, footwear, kids' gear and clothing, and more. The Komperdell kids' ski set, with the discount, is $39.93 (compare at $99.95); a men's Burton Traction shell jacket (2008 closeout) is now $63.93 (compare at $179.95). See www.rei-outlet.com.

Vintage-inspired earrings by Jill Schwartz, at Black & Blues

If you're looking for a truly retro gift, Twentieth Century Limited is marking down its extensive Bakelite collection until the end of the month. Jewelry -- bangles, necklace and earring sets, and brooches -- is 25 percent off, and clocks are 20 percent off. Twentieth Century Limited is at 73 Charles St., Boston, 617-742-1031. www.boston-vintagejewelry.com

If you're not completely fatigued from Black Friday -- or if you simply prefer to shop away from the stores -- there's no shortage of "Cyber Monday" deals to peruse. A sampling: Macy's "web busters" include a Mia 24-piece room-in-a-bag bedding set for $99.99, an Anolon 10-piece cookware set for $129.99, and select men's and women's coats at big discounts; Amazon.com has announced a TomTom ONE 140 3.5-inch portable GPS navigator for $109.99 (list price $179.95), a Livespeakr Ultra-Portable speaker system for an iPod/iPhone for $39.99 (list price $79.99), and a Samsung 52-inch LCD HDTV for $1,399.99 (list price $2,899.99); Target.com's deals of the day include a Garmin Nuvi 255W GPS bundle for $186.99 (normally $249.99) and a Jonas Brothers one-gigabyte MP3 player for $17.99 (list price $69.99).

In case you plan to hit the stores on Friday, here's a sampling of additional deals on clothes, home goods, and more to help you start planning your shopping strategy. Happy Thanksgiving, and happy shopping!

Filene's Basement hosts its annual Black Friday scratch card promotion between opening time (5 or 6 a.m., depending on the store) and noon. Take a card upon entering, and once you check out, find out what you saved. Discounts range from 10 to 50 percent, or, if you're very lucky, your entire purchase will be free. See www.filenesbasement.com for locations.

Kenneth Cole stores are taking 41 percent off prices for the first four hours they're open on Friday. For the rest of the weekend, items will be 31 percent off. Kenneth Cole is at Copley Place, 617-867-9580 and 128 Newbury St. (men's only), 617-867-0836. (Both locations open at 9 a.m.) www.kennethcole.com

Brooks Brothers will offer 15 percent off purchases until noon Friday and Saturday. (Shoppers using a MasterCard or Brooks Brothers Platinum MasterCard will get an additional five percent off.) Brooks Brothers
Factory Stores are taking 40 percent off all items until Sunday, and an extra 10 percent off Friday and Saturday until noon. Find locations at www.brooksbrothers.com.

Kohl's opens at 4 a.m. with early-bird specials on clothes, jewelry, kitchen items, board games, and more until 1 p.m. All Fisher-Price, Playskool, Barbie, Littlest Pet Shop, Hot Wheels, Matchbox, Tonka, Little Tikes, Crayola, and Play-Doh toys will be 50 percent off; select games, including Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders, will be $3.99 each (normally $9.99). Find Kohl's locations at www.kohls.com.

JCPenney stores will have "doorbuster" specials from 4 a.m. (when they open) until noon. Deals include a Wii/Xbox gaming tower for $48.88 and a Lionel Santa Fe battery-powered train set for $99.88 (normally $199.99). Good deals on clothes, shoes and boots, kitchenware, and more as well. See details and store locations at www.jcp.com. (Check the website for "Cyber Monday" deals on Sunday and Monday.)

Cowboy boots and vintage clothing spot Rick Walker's will be taking 50 percent off select items on Friday. As a bonus, there will also be live music and free hot drinks and biscotti. Rick Walker's is at 306 Newbury St., Boston, 617-482-7426. www.rickwalkers.com

For its post-Thanksgiving sale, vintage stop 40 South Street is offering 20 percent off all clothing and buy one item, get the second one half-price. 40 South Street is at -- you guessed it -- 40 South St., Jamaica Plain, 617-522-5066. www.fortysouthst.com.

Web store Olive Green Apparel will be taking 15 percent off its eco-chic, fleece-lined mittens (normally $65) Friday until Dec. 3. Use the code BlackFriday during checkout. www.olivegreenapparel.com.

Andover boutique First Date is offering 30 percent off all black merchandise and 20 percent off everything else Friday and Saturday. (In-store only.) Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. First Date is at 28 Chestnut St., Andover, 978-247-8999. Get a taste of what the store carries at www.shopfirstdate.com.

Ku De Ta is taking 15 percent off its prices (except for designer jewelry) on Friday. Ku De Ta is at 663 East Broadway, South Boston, 617-269-0008. www.kudetaboston.com

Home Depot's Black Friday deals include good buys on washers and dryers, such as an LG washer and electric dryer pair, normally $1,198, for $798; a Ridgid wet/dry vacuum for $19.88 (worth $99); and a buy-30, get-30 deal on Rayovac AA batteries (60 total for $9.99). Find Home Depot locations at www.homedepot.com.

Lowe's has deals on tools, kitchen and Christmas items, and more (in-store and online) Friday until Monday. The Saugus store will have a Skil 4-piece, 18-volt cordless combo tool kit for $59 (originally $129), a 12-cup programmable coffeemaker for $49.84 (originally $99.84), and a 400-light Christmas tree for $38 (was $98). Find locations at www.lowes.com.

Along with its slew of Black Friday deals, we're told Best Buy has already lowered prices on some of its televisions: 32-inch Dynex LCD HDTVs are now $299.99, 40-inch Dynex 1080p are $499.99, 32-inch Samsung 720p LCD HDTVs are $397.99, and 50-inch Samsung plasma 720p HDTVs are $697.99. www.bestbuy.com.

Over the next few days, we'll be giving you a heads-up as to what's planned for Black Friday. For those who can't start shopping early enough, select Gap Outlets and Banana Republic Factory Stores will be hosting a Midnight Madness sale starting the first minute of Friday. Gap Outlet is offering up to 60 percent off all merchandise and a $10 zip fleece for the first customers; Banana Republic Factory Stores are offering 40 percent off all items and $10 men's and women's track jackets (men's is pictured). Until Sunday, shoppers at either store will get a special holiday shopping pass, each with three coupons worth $5, $10, $15, $20, or $500 off their purchase when used during a designated week between Dec. 4 and Dec. 24. Gap Outlet and Banana Republic Factory Store are both at the Wrentham Village Premium Outlets, 508-384-0870 and 508-384-5320, respectively. (Gap Outlet in the Arsenal Mall, Watertown, will open at 5 a.m.) www.gap.com

For the fashionistas on your holiday shopping list, we recommend a stop at Luna Boston on Friday (yes, Black Friday), where staff will be handing out $100-gift certificates good toward purchases of $200 or more. Should you have several fashionistas on your list, show up between 9 and 11 a.m. to get two gift certificates, or $200 toward a purchase of $400 or more. The boutique carries handbags, shoes, gloves, winter hats, and other accessories by Diane von Furstenberg, Rebecca Minkoff, Free People, and others. Certificates are valid Friday only. Luna Boston is at 205 Newbury St., Boston, 617-262-3900. www.lunaboston.com.

Tomorrow through Sunday, our favorite spot to pick up Rubik's Cubes and irreverent action figures -- Monroe Salt Works, of course -- is taking 20 percent off everything in the store. (Previously marked down items excluded.) The stores' cheerful blend of old-school toys and games, novelty items, and signature country-chic stoneware make for good one-stop holiday shopping. Monroe Salt Works is at 202 Massachusetts Ave., Arlington, 781-646-6699, and Copley Place, Boston, 617-236-0045. www.monroesaltworks.com

On Centre in Jamaica Plain will be hosting a sample sale tomorrow until Sunday on jewelry designed by store owner Philip Celeste. Versatile, chain-style necklaces, earrings, and bracelets in 18-karat gold, sterling silver, copper, and black hematite finishes will be 25-50 percent off already wallet-friendly pri4ces. (Most long necklaces are normally $40-$50; earrings, $24-$35; bracelets and cuffs, $24-40). Find On Centre at 636 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, 617-522-2255. www.philipceleste.com

Lady Grace's semi-annual sale starts on Sunday, with most bras (including sports bras) and shapewear up to 25 percent off. Warner's and Maidenform, Le Mystere and Chantelle will be among the brands included. Next Tuesday until Saturday, the newly remodeled Coolidge Corner store will host fit clinics by Wacoal, Spanx, Goddess, and others, with free gifts with purchases, while they last. Five percent of the week's sales will go to Brookline High School's 21st Century Fund. Lady Grace is at 1364 Beacon St., Brookline, 617-566-8194. Find other locations (semi-annual sale only) at www.ladygrace.com.

This Friday evening and Saturday, Arlington's Fox Library hosts a women's second-hand clothing sale, held by the organizers of the former PTO Thrift Shop. There will be "mall brands," higher-end boutique brands, and vintage, we're told, all in top-notch condition, as well as shoes, jewelry, purses, scarves, and home wares. Average price of the items is a whopping $3.50; proceeds benefit the Friends of the Fox Library. The sale happens from 5 to 9 p.m. tomorrow and 1 to 6 p.m. on Saturday at 175 Massachusetts Ave., East Arlington. For more information, see www.littlefoxshop.com.

It's perhaps a bit early to be thinking about next week, but heck, we like to plan in advance. From Monday (the 9th) until Sunday (the 15th), spending $75 or more at Luna Boston gets you a free express manicure at Exhale Spa. (Actually, it gets you a gift card for $15, the cost of an express manicure.) Luna Boston has stylish handbags, shoes, and accessories by Diane von Furstenberg, Rebecca Minkoff, Treesje, and others. It’s at 205 Newbury St., Boston, 617-262-3900. Exhale Spa is at 28 Arlington St., Boston, 617-532-7000.