I am a planner. I really enjoy planning travel and for me that includes everything from restaurants to outfits. By the time a new big trip comes along, I can usually think of one or two items that need refreshing and there begins the hunt.
When I find an outfit I really love and wear it on vacation, I am immediately brought back to that trip every time I wear it again. This Alice & Olivia dress takes me back to warm summer nights in Ibiza.
When I see this white Milly dress in my closet, I can’t help but smile thinking about the 50th birthday party I threw for my husband Tony in Miami.
But I will be honest, I don’t enjoy shopping. The idea of shopping is appealing, but I get antsy when I’m actually in the act of shopping and I hate trying clothes on in a store. Online shopping is another story though. I recently found a fabulous online website that offers discounted designer clothes, shoes and accessories, all brand new with tags. I have recommended it to several friends who all agree it’s a real find.
THE OUTNET
If you’ve never heard of The Outnet, check it out ASAP. I have no affiliation with the company and this isn’t a paid promo, I just think it’s fabulous. The Outnet has a broad selection of gorgeous designer items at great discounts. You will find designers from Alice & Olivia to Missoni to Valentino to Zac Posen, some items even 70% off.
What I love about The Outnet is their search engine. You can limit your search by any number of criteria: size, price, color, category and designer. They even have a “Just In” category so you don’t waste time on items you’ve already viewed. Their return policy is generous (28 days from receipt) and the clothes arrive beautifully packed, most in Outnet garment bags. This makes the whole experience feel that much more luxurious.
I recently purchased this beautiful Max Mara summer blazer at 55% off it’s normal retail price (a $525 blazer for $238). It has become a wardrobe staple for me this season.
I know I will look at this blazer when there is a foot of snow on the ground this winter and I will be reminded of summer nights dining on pretty patios and perhaps even our upcoming trips to Nantucket and Watch Hill. As I’ve said before, sometimes the planning brings almost as much joy as the trip itself. The memories of past trips can do the same.