Blank Label -- the Boston-based website that helps men create custom shirts -- is branching out to help gals. It's set up a Kickstarter campaign and is giving a custom dress shirt to the first 500 people to pledge $69 or more (assuming the campaign meets its funding goal; if not, no one will be charged, and no shirts given out). The shirts will retail at up to $90. Pledge at least $89 and get a shirt made with one of the company's premium imported fabrics, if the campaign reaches its goal. (These will retail at up to $145.) The campaign ends June 29th.

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.

Online shop Cardigan by Lynne Hiriak has select sweaters marked down 40 percent through Sunday. Save on the store's Serge, Bruno, and Sebastian styles with the checkout code "sergemesergeme". The cardigans are merino wool, but cool enough to wear on summer evenings. Free ground shipping on these styles, too.

Marathon Sports is running a Mother’s Day sale this week through Sunday, with full-price women’s apparel marked down 20 percent. Tights, shirts, shorts, bras, and underwear from brands including Saucony, Brooks, The North Face, and Nike will be on offer. Store locations include 671 Boylston St., Boston, 617-267-4774; 1654 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, 617-354-4161; and 255 Washington St., Wellesley, 781-237-0771. Find others at here.

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.

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.

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.)

Monella in Harvard Square has select clothing from Michael Stars, LNA, Velvet by Graham and Spencer, and others at 50 percent off. Cute, spring-ready dresses and skirts from MM Couture and Esley, J Brand and Mavi denim, and boots, heels, and sandals from Jeffrey Campbell, BCBGeneration, and others are also marked down, some steeply. The sale is ongoing; no end date has been set. Monella is at 29 Brattle St., Cambridge, 617-876-6100.

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]

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.

Danvers clothier Giblees has fall and winter clothing from Canali, Robert Graham, Z Zegna, Kühl, Patagonia, Tommy Bahama, and others marked down up to 70 percent. As the brands suggest, the store’s selection includes casual, dressy, and even sporty. (The store has a coffee bar, too.) The sale is expected to run through Feb. 25th. Giblees is at 85 Andover St., Danvers, 978-774-4080.

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.

Lingerie boutique Forty Winks is offering 25 percent off any one item at a soiree tomorrow from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Find pieces from Maison Close, Marlies Dekkers, Huit, Mimi Holliday, Zinke, Elle Macpherson Intimates, and others. Sweets and champagne served, too. Forty Winks is at 56 JFK St., Cambridge, 617-492-9100.

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.

The Red Wagon in Beacon Hill has ladies' samples (size 6) from British brand Joules at 50 percent off through Monday. The store has also just kicked off its winter sale, with clothing and shoes from brands including Deux par Deux, Catimini, Zutano, and others marked down 40 percent. The Red Wagon is at 69 Beacon St., Boston, 617-523-9402.

Blue Dry Goods in Concord Center has men's and boys' fall and winter clothing marked down 30 percent through the end of the month. Find sport shirts, sweaters, jackets, and sport coats from Peter Millar, Robert Graham, Vineyard Vines, Thomas Dean, Jack Victor, and others. For boys, find Quiksilver tops, sweatshirts and jackets, along with Marmot fleece and winter jackets. Blue Dry Goods is at 16 Walden St., Concord, 978-369-1120.

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).

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]

As reported in Names last week, Beacon Hill fixture Cibeline will be closing its doors within the next few weeks as owner/designer Cibeline Sariano focuses on new endeavors (including first-time motherhood). Lots of great pieces from Lilla P, Saint James, Bordeaux, and Sariano herself are now 20-40 percent off, including sleek tops and dresses, elegant wool skirts and coats, and more. (Sariano’s popular reverse-wrap dresses will be available for order through the store’s website.) Cibeline is at 120 Charles St., Boston, 617-742-0244.

The Tannery in Harvard Square (the one with mostly shoes, not the one with mostly clothing) is having a moving sale, with select styles marked down 25-75 percent. Lots of rubber boots and some sandals for $19.99; Patagonia windbreakers, light jackets, and vests marked down 50 percent; select boots (including Fly London and Hunter) for $49.99, and more. The store will be joining the other Tannery around the corner. The sale is at 11A Brattle St., Cambridge, 617-491-0810.

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.

Love vintage? Jamaica Plain spot 40 South St. will have all men’s and women’s clothing marked down 50 percent to ring in the new year. (Sale hours are noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday.) Stylish old-school dresses, denim, button-down shirts, coats and jackets, and more will all be on offer. 40 South Street is at (of course) 40 South St., Jamaica Plain, 617-522-5066.

Eddie Bauer is hosting what it calls its biggest one-day sale ever today, with everything (excluding First Ascent items) marked down 50 percent in stores and and more than 400 styles marked down 50-60 percent online. (Also save up to $100 on most outerwear online.) Eddie Bauer locations include the Burlington Mall, 781-273-2555 and the South Shore Plaza, 781-848-2167. Find others here.

pictured: women's Sun Valley down parka, originally $229, on sale for $149.99

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.

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.

Here's one sale you want have to wait until Friday for: Hatch in Concord Center has all clothing marked down 20 percent through tomorrow. Designers include Erica Tanov, Kelly Lane, Dutch label Creenstone, and others. Find it at 14 Walden St., Concord, 978-369-0252.

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.

Though the weather outside is balmy, we all know what's lurking around the corner. With that in mind, ZIA in Brookline is running a coat sale tomorrow through next Wednesday (the 16th), with selections from Ronen Chen and Montreal-based labels Jane & John and Entrata marked down 25 percent. (Prices range from $250-$400.) Zia is at 1054 Beacon St., Brookline, 617-566-1990.

(Pictured: Jane & John coat, $390 at ZIA)

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.

Get ready, brides-to-be: Filene's Basement hosts its Running of the Brides event at its Newton store on Friday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. More than 1,700 gowns sizes 2 to 26 will be up for grabs for $249-$699 (originally up to $6,000). Find tips for shopping the event successfully here. Filene’s Basement is at 215-227 Needham St., Newton, 617-332-1295.

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.

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.

Ahead of its closing at the end of the year, Priscilla of Boston is hosting a liquidation sale at its Charlestown warehouse on Saturday from 9a.m. to 4 p.m. Gowns will be 75-90 percent off original prices and will start at $99.

Brands will include Priscilla of Boston, Platinum for Priscilla of Boston, Jewel by Priscilla of Boston, Melissa Sweet, and Vineyard Collection.

We’re guessing lines will form early.

The warehouse is at 40 Cambridge St., Charlestown. Find more sale details at www.priscillaofboston.com.

-- Ami Albernaz

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.

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.

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.)

New (to Newbury Street) denim shop The Blues Jean Bar is offering 20 percent off storewide today and a free glass of Skinnygirl Margarita just for trying on a pair of skinny jeans. (Apologies for the late-ish notice; it's open until 7 p.m.) As the name suggests, you shop by telling a "jeantender" your preferred style, wash, and brand (the store serves up DL1961, Red Engine, Joe's Jeans, and many others); you then get to try on matches in the hopes that one (or more) is the perfect pair. If you can't make it in today, the store will be offering 20 percent off white jeans and 20 percent off a second pair of Red Engine jeans (after you buy one at full-price) throughout September. The Blues Jean Bar is at 85 Newbury St., Boston, 857-350-4683.

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.

Davis Square boutique Suneri has a nice mix of understated and more adventurous summer and transitional pieces marked down at least 30 percent. The selection includes Ronen Chen, Mystree, and emerging local and international designers including Magalí Corzo, Alena, and Béatrice Puysségur. The sale should run through Labor Day. Suneri is at 67 Holland St., Somerville, 617-440-3559.

Monella has summer duds from James Perse, C&C California, Velvet, and others marked down at least 20 percent. On a visit a couple of days ago, a gorgeous lamb leather MM Couture jacket was $199 (reduced from $349), James Perse T-shirts were $29 (originally $50), and Steve Madden and sandals from Steve Madden, Dolce Vita, and Jeffrey Campbell sandals had just been marked down (around 20 percent). The sale should continue through August; we’re told markdowns will get steeper as it progresses. Monella is at 29 Brattle St., Cambridge, 617-876-6100.

Maybe you have a suit jacket with arms that are a hair too short or a drawer full of ties you'll never wear. Take them down to any Men's Wearhouse store before the end of the month, and get a coupon for half off an entire future purchase (full-price items only, shoes excluded) The stores are accepting minimally worn men's and women's suits, dress shirts, sports coats, skirts, dress pants, professional sportswear and outerwear, dress shoes, and ties. Donations go to St. Francis House (Boston) and Tailored for Success (Malden). Find Men's Wearhouse locations here.

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]

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]

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.

Cynthia Rowley has just kicked off her summer sale, with select spring pieces as much as half off. The best selection is in-store, though there are some fun finds online, too -- like gold foil-dotted tees (were $75, now $49); a denim applique shift dress (was $365, now $259); and the confetti print dress pictured (was $395, now $279). Cynthia Rowley is at 164 Newbury St., Boston, 617-587-5240.

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]

North River Outfitter's online store has men's Patagonia overstock at half off while it lasts. The selection includes down sweaters, nano puff jackets and pullovers, and R3 jackets. Items seem to be going quickly; all sales are final.

In South Boston, Habit is running a summer sale today through Sunday, with all merchandise except handmade jewelry marked down 25-50 percent. Find tops, dresses, jeans, summer scarves, and handbags from BB Dakota, Hudson, RD International, and others. Habit is at 703 East Broadway, Boston, 617-269-1998.

[pictured: nano puff pullover in Narhwal grey, $74.50 at northriveroutfitter.com]

The Red Wagon hosts a Primigi sidewalk sale tomorrow through Sunday, with lots of spring and summer styles for $35 (valued up to $110). Sizes start at 3 (first walkers) and run up to women’s size 7 and boys’ size 4 (big kids). The store’s semi-annual sale also kicks off tomorrow, with spring and summer clothing and shoes from Joules, Toobydoo, Catimini, Appaman, Room Seven, and others marked down 30-40 percent. (Clothing sizes run up to 14 for girls and up to 10 for boys.) The Red Wagon is at 69 Charles St., Boston, 617-523-9402.

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.

The Thrift Shop of Boston celebrates its 85th birthday today with a 50 percent storewide discount. Find housewares, men’s and women’s clothing, artwork, books, games, and more. All of the shop’s proceeds benefit The Home for Little Wanderers. The shop is at 17 Corinth St., Roslindale, 617-325-5300.

The Red Wagon hosts a Morgan & Milo trunk show tomorrow through Sunday, with spring and summer shoes and clothing at 40 percent off original prices. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. today through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. The Red Wagon is at 69 Charles St., Boston, 617-523-9402.

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.

Hanna Andersson has started its semi-annual sale in-store and online, with markdowns on clothes, swimwear, and more. Sale items seem to be going quickly online; selection seems best in hoodies and sweaters, summer dresses, and boys' and girls' tees.

Old Navy has its women's dresses starting at $15 and girls' dresses starting at $10 through June 12th, and men's clothing starting at $6 through the 19th. Polo and Madras shirts are $12, tees are $7, and shorts and swim trunks start at $10 online. (In-store prices may be different.) Find store locations here.

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.

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.]

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]

Here's one good excuse to slip out of the office on Thursday: Beacon Hill boutique Cibeline will be hosting a trunk show sale at the Liberty Hotel, with past-season tops marked down to $20-$60 and skirts, jackets, pants, and dresses (sizes XS to XL) priced at $100. (Original prices are at least four times higher in some cases.) Three baskets of spring must-haves will be raffled off during the sale; all proceeds benefit the Travis Roy Foundation. The sale happens from noon to 9 p.m. at the hotel's Ebersole Presidential Suite (on the 16th floor); if you feel like sticking around, check out Cibeline's "Modern Motown" fashion show at 10 p.m., part of the hotel's Fashionably Late series. The hotel is at 215 Charles St., Boston, 617-224-4000.

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.

The eco-friendly Greenward is hosting an Earth Day/fourth birthday sale on full-price items Saturday and Sunday. Spend $25-$49.99 and get 10 percent off; spend $50-$99.99 and get 15 percent off; spend $100 or more and get 20 percent off. (If you're shopping online, you can use the coupon codes edaybday25 for orders of $25 and up; edaybday50 for orders $50 and up; and edaybday100 for orders $100 and up.) The store carries organic baby clothing, eco-friendly tote bags, jewelry made from recycled skateboards, and other fun, functional, and unexpected wares. Composting-related items are 15 percent off through the end of the month; on Saturday, the store hosts a free worm-composting workshop (find more information on the store’s Facebook page). Greenward is at 1764 Massachusetts Ave. (Porter Sq.), Cambridge, 617-395-1338.

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]

In honor of Earth Day at the end of the week, REUSE Jeans is offering 50 percent off its entire line through its web store through April 30th. Find ladies’ shorts, skirts, jackets, and vests along with men’s and women’s jeans, all made primarily from recycled textiles. With the discount, prices range from $37.50-$70 (before shipping). Use the checkout code WOGEARTH (all caps).

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.

Sad to hear that Andover Center lingerie shop Night & Day will be closing its doors at the end of the month after more than seven years in business. The entire store (bras, panties, sleepwear, and more) is now 30 percent off; it's open Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. Night & Day, 63 Park St., Andover, 978-475-0343.

Swedish clothing brand Polarn O. Pyret is hosting a sample and warehouse sale tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Along with stylish, well-made duds for little ones, there will be swag bags filled with Baby Bjorn, See Kai Run, and The Laundress goodies for the first 50 customers. The sale happens at The Scandinavian Living Center, 206 Waltham St., West Newton.

It's a great time to pick up shoes for the kids: The Red Wagon is hosting its semi-annual Primigi sidewalk sale tomorrow through Sunday, with more than 500 pairs of spring and summer shoes for $35 each (up to a $110-value). Sizes start at 3 (first walkers) and run up to women’s size 9. (For boys, they stop at around big kids’ size 4.) The selection in past sales has run the gamut from sandals to dress shoes to sporty styles, with lots for toddlers. As a bonus, there will be current Little Joule dresses, fleeces, rugby shirts, and Ts for 40 percent off (sizes range from 3-12). Stop in early for the best selection. The Red Wagon is at 69 Charles St., Boston, 617-523-9402.

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.

If you've got wedding bells in your future, you'll want to plan a trip to Priscilla of Boston, where wedding gown samples will be up to 75 percent off of retail prices ($1,650-$8,000) tomorrow through Friday. (Bridesmaid dresses will start at $29.99). Brands include Priscilla of Boston, Platinum for Priscilla of Boston, Jewel by Priscilla of Boston, Melissa Sweet, and Vineyard. The salon is at 801 Boylston St., Boston, 617-267-9070. Find more info here.

Helena’s of Arlington will have all of its Johnny Was LA, Red Engine, and Prairie Underground wares, including new arrivals, marked down 20 percent tomorrow through Sunday. Selections from each of the brands, respectively, include embroidered dresses, tunics, and tops (originally $118-$183); jeans and denim skirts (originally around $133-$153), and cloak and prairie hoodies in assorted colors (originally $206-$238). Helena’s is at 397 Massachusetts Ave., Arlington, 781-483-3055.

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.

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.)

Marathon Sports has winter apparel marked down 30 percent at all six locations. On a stop in at the Boylston Street store this weekend, there was a good selection of long-sleeved tops, pullovers, and pants from Asics, Nike, Saucony, and others. The sale is expected to run through Feb. 20th. Marathon Sports locations include 671 Boylston St., Boston, 617-267-4774; 1654 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, 617-354-4161; and 255 Washington St., Wellesley, 781-237-0771. Find others here.

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]

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.)

Though even the best layering strategies might prove futile today, it not hurt to get some extra armor. Patagonia has down sweaters, puffers, pullovers, and other warm wares at 30 percent off through Wednesday. There's a good men's and women's selection (and a few choices for kids) online, or try the store at 346 Newbury St., Boston, 617-424-1776.

[pictured: men's nano puff hoody, originally $199, now $139.30 at www.patagonia.com]

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

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.

... 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)

The concept of loungewear has always been somewhat mysterious (or maybe just to me) -- a big gray area that might encompass sweatsuits, robes, certain pieces of lingerie, and more dignified pajama sets. Malibu-based Keep Me's interpretations of the category are super-soft, simple, and classy: slim, stretchy pants that you wouldn't mind wearing to yoga; cute, boyshort-rompers; even button-down henleys. Everything on the site (including sale items) is 20 percent off through the end of the month with the code LOVEKM. Maybe a good time to upgrade from the sweats?

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.

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, diseño | 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.

Newton shop Brussels Sprouts has lots of its merchandise marked down 50 percent through Saturday. All women's and girls' pants (jeans, cords, jeggings, yoga pants) and select tops and dresses from Flowers by Zoe, Plum, Erge, Wild Mango, and many others are included. As a bonus, anyone who signs up for the store's email list in-person or on the website gets a coupon for $20 off purchases of $100 or more. Brussels Sprouts is at 855 Washington St., Newton, 617-244-9832.

Photo credit: Rick Bern

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)

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.

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)

Sad to read this morning that another independent store -- this time, Kenmore Square's Jean Therapy -- will be closing its doors at the end of the month. For now, everything in the store is half off (pay with cash, and the markdown goes up to 60 percent). Sale items are 75 percent off. Any sale updates will be posted on the store's blog.

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.

If you could use some kids' clothes or gear, mark your calendar for October 8th, 9th, or 10th (next weekend), the dates of Consign My Closet's fall/winter event. More than 10,000 gently used items for toddlers through teens including bedroom furniture, strollers, some skis, and lots of clothes (from Oilily, Catimini, Abercrombie, and others) will be on offer for up to 70 percent off original prices. Why the early heads-up? If you have children's items you want to consign, you have until next Tuesday night to do so. (There is a 30-item minimum; find details here). Consignors get to keep 60-70 percent of their sales; if you consign more than 100 items, you get to attend a pre-sale that happens from 9 a.m. til noon on the 8th. The sale will happen at the Boxborough Holiday Inn, 242 Adams Pl., Boxborough. Learn more about the event here.

(Pictured: Consign My Closet's spring/summer sale last March)

Six Eddie Bauer stores will be collecting new or gently used coats tomorrow through Sunday for people in need. For donating a coat, you'll get 20 percent off your purchase. The participating locations include the Burlington Mall, Cape Cod Mall, and Garden City (Cranston, R.I), and the outlet stores at Downtown Crossing, Wrentham Village, and Kittery. Find more details 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'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.

L.A.-based ShopLikeKings launched today, promising upscale street, surf, skate, and "premium" brands (such as James Perse and Trovata) at up to 80 percent off. The inaugural sale -- which includes vintage NFL Ts from Junk Food -- looks to be nearly over (a warning that the goods will go quickly); the next two sales are Cash Crop (Thursday) and surf and skatewear brand RVCA (next Monday). You'll have to sign up to access the sales; there's no waiting list (at least not now). Down the road, look for marked down iPods, flips, and other gadgets within the mix.

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.

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.

Consignment chain Second Time Around has its summer merchandise at 50 percent off and new fall merchandise marked down 10 percent throughout the weekend. Find stores in Boston, Needham, Chestnut Hill, and other locations; check the website for store hours.

If you don't shrink from bold colors and patterns, you might do well with the spring and summer markdowns at In the Pink, the Massachusetts-based Lilly Pulitzer specialty stores. On a recent visit to the Newbury Street shop, kids' summer clothing was marked down 40 percent (pretty frocks, boys' and girls' polo shirts, swimsuits). Men's summer polos and dress shirts and women's sweaters were also marked down. I'm told the stores' sale items change frequently this time of year, but that the kids' wares should remain discounted through the end of the month. In the Pink locations include 133 Newbury St., Boston, 617-536-6423; the Derby Street Shoppes in Hingham, 781-740-3133, and various spots on the Cape. (Details here.)

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.

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.

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)

Should your closet need a little more denim, you might want to hit Jean Therapy's midnight madness sale tomorrow from 5 p.m. til midnight. Items start out at 30 percent off (from 5-7) and gradually go up to 55 percent off (11 til midnight). Find details and a list of sale "rules" here. Can't make the sale? Everything on the website will be 30 percent off tomorrow with the code MADNESS. Jean Therapy is at 524 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 617-266-6555.

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.

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.

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.

Got plans for Thursday evening? Crush Boutique in Beacon Hill will be kicking off its summer sale with light bites and fizzy drinks from 4-8 p.m. The sale, which should go into August, will have select summer clothing and most shoes marked down 20-60 percent. A small sample: a Shoshanna begonia and white tribal-pattern dress for $268.50 (originally $358); an Ali Ro ruffle-front haltered maxi dress for $148.80 (originally $186); and a Madison Marcus sherbet-pink silk beaded top (pictured) for $198.80 (originally $284). Denim will be on sale, too. Crush Boutique is at 131 Charles St., Boston, 617-720-0010.

'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.

Though perhaps better known for its selection of hats, Salmagundi in Jamaica Plain has clothing for guys and gals, too, some of it now marked down 40 percent. Spiewak coats and jackets, originally $92-$128, are around $55.20-$76.80; "Just a Cheap Shirt" shirts (one pictured), normally $68-$78, are around $40.80-$46.80. Salmagundi is at 765 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, 617-522-5047. (It's open Tuesday through Sunday.)

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.

Gap.com has a "roll the dice" promotion on until Thursday night, for which you can get anywhere from 10-40 percent off a purchase by entering the code L6JRF1GHGZYB at checkout. (Rolls right off the tongue, doesn't it.) The offer is online-only, and the fine print says it doesn't apply to third-party merchandise (including Keds, Converse, and Stella McCartney for GapKids/babyGap) and can't be combined with other offers or discounts (which makes it seem as though items marked down as part of Gap's current summer sale can't be marked down further. If your experience suggests otherwise, let me know.)

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)

Karen Millen in the Natick Collection is offering students with ID a 20 percent discount on full-price dresses until the end of the month. (The Natick and Copley Place stores normally offer 10 percent off full-price items with student ID.) The decidedly young and fun selection includes lots of prom-appropriate styles: bow dresses (pictured), ruffled-shoulder numbers, and simpler options, many in black, silver, and champagne. (You can take a peek online.) Karen Millen, Natick Collection, 508-651-0633.

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).

The Shop at Equinox (attached to the health club -- one on Franklin Street and the other on Dartmouth Street) is offering up to 50 percent off select apparel until Memorial Day. Sale items include tops by Beyond Yoga, sweats by Saint Grace, and Blue Fish tops and bottoms that you could probably get away with wearing when you're not working out. (Selection varies a little between stores.) The stores are also offering 20 percent off when you buy two items of clothing (on-sale and full-price) and 30 percent off when you buy three or more. (Word to the wise: This is upscale gym wear, so you won't find $5- or $10-pieces, even with the sale.)
Along with the workout wear, there are casual selections from Splendid, James Perse, and Ella Moss. The Shop at Equinox is at 13 Dartmouth St., Boston, 617-578-8918 and 225 Franklin St., 617-426-2140.

eDressMe.com has select casual summer dresses and dressier, prom-type styles marked down 25 percent as part of its Memorial Day sale. In the spirit of the holiday, all of the sale dresses are red, white, and blue; fortunately, that requirement doesn't mean the dresses look like big flags -- there's a number of cute choices in blue, white, or a combination of the two. Designers include Hale Bob, Sonya Rykiel, and Tracy Reese. Use the code nautical10 at checkout to get the discount. Sale ends June 1.

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.

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.

J.Crew is taking 30 percent off on men's, women's, and kids' outerwear in-store and online through tomorrow. (Some exclusions apply.) The website is also offering free shipping on orders of $150 or more with the checkout code WINTER, also through tomorrow. Store locations include Copley Place, Boston, 617-236-5950; CambridgeSide Galleria, Cambridge, 617-225-2739; and Northshore Mall, Peabody, 978-977-7450. Find others here.

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

Ladies in the market for a new winter coat might try their luck at the "winter extravaganza" hosted by roving off-price retailer Clothes Encounters tomorrow until Sunday. Wool and down coats and parkas will be priced from $29-$79 (valued up to $500); there will be sweaters, sportswear, and men's wool and leather jackets as well. The event happens at Michael's Mall in Winthrop. Cash or check only. For more information, see clothesencountersinc.blogspot.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).

Gap.com is offering 50 percent off all men's and women's sweaters and 50 percent off all kids' and babies' fleeces (hoodies, pants, hats, scarves, gloves) until Sunday. Some shirts, pants, and outerwear for men are 30 percent off, and all women's outerwear is 30 percent off. Sister site Bananarepublic.com has 30 percent off all men's and women's sweaters and outerwear until Sunday.

L.L.Bean is taking 20 percent off all men's, women's, and kids' sweaters today until Sunday (online and in-store, though not at outlets). L.L.Bean is at Legacy Place, 950 Providence Highway, Dedham, 800-650-6358, and at Wayside Commons, 6 Wayside Rd., Burlington, 781-505-1460. Find other locations at www.llbean.com.

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

Beacon Hill boutique Cibeline is toasting its first year on Charles Street next Thursday evening with a sample sale and fashion show at The Liberty Hotel. The sale happens from 5 to 9 p.m. at the hotel's Alibi Bar + Lounge and will have chic dresses, jackets, pants, and skirts designed by boutique owner Cibeline Sariano for $100 (or up to 80 percent off original prices). The fashion show, part of the hotel's "Fashionably Late" series, kicks off at 10 p.m. and features Sariano's holiday collection. If you go, be sure to pick up a discount card good for a future visit to the store. The Liberty Hotel is at 215 Charles St., Boston, 617-224-4000. For more on Cibeline, visit www.cibelinesariano.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.

Escada has begun its sale on its pre-fall merchandise, with well-stocked racks of tops, blazers, sweaters, and dresses marked down 40 percent. The palette ranges from black-and-white '60s office chic to intensely saturated purples, teals, and pinks; we found ourselves gravitating toward grays, in particular, a smart, soft gray wool blazer (originally $610) and a long wool and cashmere high neck sweater (originally $430) that would have been perfect with tights and ankle boots. Escada is at 308 Boylston St., Boston, 617-437-1200. www.escada.com.

Looking to add new jeans to the wardrobe? Chrislee in Needham is taking 15 percent off its denim from next Tuesday (Nov. 3rd) until next Saturday (the 7th). The boutique carries a good variety of Hudson and Big Star jeans (originally around $150-$190 and $78-$148, respectively); Miss Me ($98); William Rast (around $200-$220); and Antik and Taverniti So (both $175-$250). Check out the 70-percent-off rack for good finds among past season sweaters, tops, and cocktail dresses, populated by the likes of Vivienne Tam, Odd Molly, and Tracy Reese. Chrislee is at 1110 Great Plain Ave., Needham, 781-453-4073. www.chrisleeboutique.com

Alright, consignment shoppers. We hear one of Second Time Around's Newbury Street stores (the one at 176 Newbury) is taking half off of most of its merchandise this Friday and Saturday. Find tops, bottoms, dresses, shoes, bags, and more. Store opens at 10 a.m. both days. 617-247-3504. www.secondtimearound.net

It was hard for us to imagine slipping into a winter coat when they first appeared in stores, but now, we're more or less resigned. Thankfully, Gia B. is helping us out by taking 20 percent off its down coats and vests Friday and Saturday—sleek, ultra-warm numbers in white, black, and mauve. (They're far more flattering than your typical puffers.) The vests are normally $154 (so are $123.20 on sale), and the coats range from $338-$468 ($270.40-$374.40 with the discount). Gia B. is at the Derby Street Shoppes, Suite 131, Hingham, 781-749-5510. www.giaboutique.net

Moxie, in Beacon Hill and Wellesley, turns eight this month, and is offering a few specials until Halloween. Select, in-season handbags are 30 percent off, and select jewelry is 40 percent off. When you buy a pair of boots (select pairs are 20 percent off), you're entered to win a free Echo scarf. Moxie is at 51 Charles St., Boston, 617-557-9991, and 24 Church St., Wellesley, 781-235-1833. www.moxieboston.com

When we heard about the recently opened Buffalo Exchange, where folks can trade in well-maintained duds for cash or store credit, we figured the selection would be small—how much local loot could one store amass in a few weeks? Clearly, we were wrong. The racks, which blend lower-end and higher-end, contemporary and vintage, are robust. (The store opened with inventory from other Buffalo Exchanges—there are locations in 14 states.) Prices are good (we spotted True Religion jeans for $55, a J. Crew lambswool sweater for $18, plenty of jackets between $20-$30), and the wares, from what we could see, are pristine. Fun shoes, too. Buffalo Exchange is at 238 Elm St., Somerville, 617-629-5383. www.buffaloexchange.com

Though its 100th birthday was earlier this year, Filene's Basement is now getting around to celebrating its centennial with a series of special offers. Tomorrow, Saturday, and Oct. 31st, the first 100 people through the door will receive a gift card worth $10, and from tomorrow until Nov. 1st, all men's suits will be $50-$200 off. From Nov. 1st until Nov. 7th, stores will be collecting entries to win a gift card worth $1,909 (the store's founding year). Check www.filenesbasement.com for other centennial deals. Filene's Basement is at 497 Boylston St., Boston, 617-424-5520, and 215-227 Needham St., Newton, 617-332-1295. Find a complete list of locations on the website. (Photo by Jonathan Wiggs, Globe Staff)

There are yard sales, and then there is Swap-It, the annual mega-sale at the Milton Academy ice hockey rink. Now in its 59th year, the sale, which runs this coming weekend, will have designer clothing, sporting equipment, baby gear and apparel, home goods, bicycles, and more at bargain prices. (There's really no swapping involved; the name has just stuck over the years.) Hours are Friday night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. (during the latter slot, items will be half-price); and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. (items will be $1 each) and 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (pay $5 for a huge bag). Proceeds benefit Milton Academy’s K-8 classrooms, and some of the goods left after the sale are donated to a church in Haiti and to local charities. Milton Academy is at 170 Centre St., Milton, www.milton.edu. For more information, call 617-898-2516 or see www.milton.edu.

Next Thursday evening (Oct. 22nd), CambridgeSide Galleria hosts its Passport to Fashion event, with one-night deals and a fashion show meant, we're told, to help folks translate the lofty looks of the fashion week runways to their own wardrobes. Register online or in-person and pick up a coupon book to take advantage of special deals including 25 percent off full-priced merchandise at Ann Taylor, 20 percent off all services at Dellaria Salon, and free sampler bags at Sephora, while they last. The event happens from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. CambridgeSide Galleria is at 100 CambridgeSide Place, Cambridge, 617-621-8666. Find all the details at www.shopcambridgeside.com.

On a recent walk through Downtown Crossing, we stopped in at the Men's Designer Fashion Outlet, which opened around a month ago. (There was a location in Central Square a while back, but it's now closed.) An array of grand-opening discounts, which we're told will likely stay until the end of the month (a holiday sale will start shortly after), include 40 percent off of already low-priced suits from Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Joseph Abboud, and others, and 50 percent off long-sleeved T-shirts and jeans. Men's Designer Fashion Outlet is at 481 Washington St., Boston, 617-728-9950. www.mdfoutlet.com

Neiman Marcus's Women's Apparel Sale is on now until October 13th. Select career and contemporary sportswear is up to 50 percent off; dresses are up to 40 percent off; and denim is up to 30 percent off. (Discounts taken off original prices.) Neiman Marcus is at Copley Place, 617-536-3660, and Natick Collection, 508-620-5700. www.neimanmarcus.com