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.

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.

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.

Cape Clogs is offering a special price on its Zinnia clogs (at left) and donating 50 percent of sales to Hope in Bloom, a nonprofit that plants gardens for Massachusetts women and men undergoing breast cancer treatment. Through May 31st, the clogs, normally $87, are $50, including shipping and handling. Learn more here; purchase here.

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.

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.

Cuoio on Newbury Street has steep markdowns on its remaining shoes and boots. Nice selections from Everybody, Vaneli, French Sole, Robert Zur, and others, in limited sizes, are 30-60 percent off. (Shoes start at $49.99; boots start at $89.99.) Cuoio is at 128 Newbury St., Boston, 617-859-0636.

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.

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

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]

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.

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]

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.

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.

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.

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.

Stride Rite is running a baby shoe sale through next Tuesday (Sept. 27th). Select Robeez (pre-walkers) start at $19 (normally $22-$40), and select Stride Rite SRT shoes (baby sizes 4-8) start at $39.99 (normally $46-$49). Styles include booties, sneakers, Mary Janes, and others. Select toddlers’ and kids’ sneakers sizes 8.5 and up are marked down 20 percent, also through next Tuesday; use the code FALLSNEAKERS if shopping online. Stride Rite locations include Natick Mall, 1245 Worcester St., Natick, 508-651-9800; Burlington Mall, 75 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington, 781-272-7994; and South Shore Plaza, 250 Granite St., Braintree, 781-843-8651. Find others here.

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.)

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.

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.

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]

Moxie’s summer sale is on in its Beacon Hill and Wellesley stores, with select shoes and handbags from Tory Burch, Elizabeth and James, See by Chloé, Diane von Furstenberg, Jack Rogers, and others marked down 20-50 percent. The deals get even sweeter on Friday, when sale items at both locations get marked down an additional 30 percent ahead of renovations and a week-long closure at the Boston store in early August. Find Moxie's locations on the website. Meanwhile, footwear wunderkind Zack Lo has select styles on his website marked down up to 70 percent; if you like your footwear bold, this is the site you've been looking for.

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.

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.

Cuoio is getting ready to relocate its Newbury Street digs in a few weeks (to another space across the street), and has most of its shoes marked down 30-70 percent. Wedges, gladiator sandals, ballet flats, and office-appropriate styles from Donald J Pliner, Everybody, French Sole, Thierry Rabotin, and Anyi Lu are all on offer. Sale prices range from around $59.99-$300. Cuoio is at 115 Newbury St., Boston, 617-859-0636.

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.

Baby and children’s footwear outfit pediped cq is running a “Purchases with Purpose” fundraising sale on its website, with select shoes marked down up to 50 percent. At the time of this writing, the selection included adorable Mary Janes, sandals, sneakers, and boots (sizes limited in some styles). Half of the sales dollars will go to the pediped foundation cq, which in turn donates all proceeds to children’s charities including the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The sale ends July 3rd. www.pediped.com

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.]

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.

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.]

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

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

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]

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

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

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

A Vince Camuto outlet opens in Wrentham today (Camuto is a co-founder of Nine West who has since gone on to launch his own footwear line), and in honor of the opening, all handbags are 25 percent off and shoes are buy-one, get-one-half-off on until April 30th. The store is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. today and tomorrow and until 6 p.m. on Sunday. Find it at Wrentham Village Premium Outlets, 508-384-5945.

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.

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.

For those of you who like to mix your St. Patrick's Day merry-making with retail therapy, here's a deal for you: PlanetShoes is offering 20 percent off most of its site today and tomorrow (outlet items and these brands excluded) with the checkout code LUCKYBOSTON. The selection ranges from Indigo by Clarks heels to New Balance sneakers to Dr. Martens boots to a smattering of vegan-friendly options. (Find bags by Jane Marvel, The North Face, and others as well.) The sale ends at midnight tomorrow.

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 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.

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.

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.)

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.)

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.

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

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

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?

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)

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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)

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.

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.

NineWest.com has some of its pumps and ankle boots marked down 25 percent until the 29th. The selection, thought not that big, includes a few fun pairs of leopard-print heels and substantial strappy numbers. Discounted prices range from around $52-$112.

Nordstrom has select women's and kids' shoes on clearance. As of now, there are nearly 900 pairs of women's shoes online, including everything from Converse and Puma sneakers to Stuart Weitzman snakeskin booties. (Lots of sandals, too.) In the kids' shoes, there are mainly sneakers and sandals, though there are some cute Mary Janes and ballet flats as well. The sale is online and in stores.

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

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

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.

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.

Just as now is a good time to get good deals on summer clothes, it's also a good time to stock up on summer shoes. Downtown Shooz has cute sandals from Eliza B., Reef, and others at half off. (The Eliza B.'s, like the pair pictured, are originally anywhere from $35.95-$45.95.) The store also has some men's shoes (casual and somewhat dressier) from Nunn Bush, Steve Madden, and others at half off. (With the markdown, they're around $35-$40). The sale has no set end date, but likely won't last long. Downtown Shooz is at 307 Harvard St., Brookline, 617-734-1411.

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.

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.

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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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.

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

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).

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.

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

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

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.

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

Sister outfits George's Shoe Store and Benton Shoe Company have a designer shoe and boot event on now, with Blay, Donald J Pliner, Stuart Weitzman, Aquatalia, and others going for $21-$79 (normally up to $625). We don't need the calculators to sense there are some killer deals. The sale is on until everything's gone, but we'd say it's best to get there very soon. George's Shoe Store is at 669 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, 617-524-4866. Benton Shoe Company is at 814 Elm St., Manchester, NH, 603-644-2550. www.bentonshoeco.com

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

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

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

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

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.

If you're looking for deals on fall and winter shoes, walk yourself over to a Charlotte Russe store this Thursday for a High Heel Happy Hour from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The chain's new fall and holiday boots, booties, and heels will be there for the buying; we're told they'll range in price from $18.99-$42.99. (There will be refreshments as well.) Buy one pair and get a second for $10, or buy two pairs and get a third for $5. (The discounted pairs are the lowest-priced ones, but you knew that.) Charlotte Russe locations include South Shore Plaza, Braintree, 781-380-0718; Square One Mall, Saugus, 781-231-9315; and The Hanover Mall, Hanover, 781-826-5246. www.charlotterusse.com