Lipgloss Break: fashion show

Yesterday a very lost looking tourist family asked me for directions on the subway. I helped them, obviously, but then was surprised how easily I was able to answer their questions. For only being in the city for 3 1/2 months, I think my husband and I have covered more ground than those who have lived here for years. I'm comfortable with the subway system (as long as I have a map to reference) and I know where all the good finds are...specifically, the beauty and fashion shopping spots!

Here are my top 5 beauty & fashion finds in the city:

1. A trip to NYC is not complete without visiting Bloomingdales. If you're from out of town, Bloomingdales offers you an out of town discount. For the entire day, you can get 10%! It doesn't apply to cosmetics but I was able to use it for a new designer purse I had been wanting.

2. Want to score a designer bag or outfit for a deal? Visit Century 21. Not to be mistaken with the real estate company, Century 21 is a discount designer department store. There are two locations in Manhattan, the larger store being on Wall Street.

Make sure you set aside at least 2 hours for when you visit, there is a lot to see! Cosmetics, purses, clothes, accessories, and home goods, you name it, they have it, all on sale.

3. For most vacations, I would recommend getting a mani/pedi before you leave. But not when you come to NYC. There are several salons in each area that offer mani/pedi deals. I found them as cheap as $19.99 for both a manicure and pedicure! As soon as you step into the city visit a salon. Our favorite is Angel Nails on 85th and Amsterdam. They know us by name!

4. Support local artists and business by shopping the jewelry vendors in Soho. I love these vendors for affordable, NYC authentic souvenirs.

5. Make sure to check out the local fashion blogs to find out if there are any designer sample sales going on while you are here. Designer sample sales are amazing. You can get items right off the runway at a discount. The one I frequent the most is in the Chelsea Market,

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Bucket List item #26: Attend a NY Fashion Show...check!

My first show was Friday after work. Yuna Yang chose a very unique location, the NASDAQ Marketsite. The models strutted their stuff around the open glass middle while we overlooked Times Square.

For her SS13 Collection, Yuna drew inspiration from the musical layers and rhythm of the rock band, Civil Twilight. Her SS13 collection features a foundation of French chantelle lace with modern touches of Japanese polka dots.

Lots of pastels, a few red pieces, lace and dots. I love the lace overlay dress, especially in the baby blue she picked out. I'm also a fan of the long lace overlay over a shorter dress. Its an option for non-maxi dress wearers (like me) to try out the longer look. I'll take one of the laced back dresses for work, please!