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What To Buy With Your Holiday Gift Cards

what to buy with your holiday gift cards

Who got a gift card for Christmas? Raise your hand!!

I didn’t get any gift cards this year (well, that’s not true — my mom gave me a GC to my favorite spa!) but I did get a couple of nice checks that are burning a hole in my pocket.

For those of you who DID get a holiday gift card to your favorite store, or if you’ve been saving some of your clothing budget to spend on the after-Christmas sales, I’m happy to help you spend it. I know some of you hate to shop, so I’m here to make it easy on you. That’s just the kind of thoughtful person that I am.

Starbucks is a no brainer. Hello, Peppermint Mocha Latte please? I would be getting one every time I passed a Starbucks until my gift card ran out.

Then there are the biggies like Nordstrom, LOFT, Athleta, Kohl’s, Macy’s, Sephora, and so many more. And they are having some major sales. I hadn’t even opened my last present when I started getting emails in my inbox announcing fantastic post-holiday sale events.

What to Buy at Nordstrom

Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale

What shouldn’t you buy at Nordstrom should really be the question. Nordstrom has just started their Half Yearly Sale with many products reduced up to 50%!!! Plus, as always, you get FREE SHIPPING and FREE RETURNS with up to 6 months to make those returns. You just can’t beat that!!! Here are my top picks!

What to Buy at Nordstrom

BP. Colorblock Blanket Scarf Was: $30.00 Now: $14.98 // Gucci 57mm Retro Sunglasses Was: $310.00 Now: $154.98 // Ivanka Trump ‘Livi’ Faux Suede Over the Knee Boots Was: $178.95 Now: $109.90 // R Minkoff ‘Medium MAB’ Leather Tote Was: $265.00 Now: $132.49 // Bobeau One-Button Fuzzy Fleece Wrap Cardigan (Regular & Petite) Regular Was: $58.00 Now: $39.90

Topshop ‘Leah’ Faux Fur Vest Was: $125.00 Now: $74.99 // MICHAEL Michael Kors ‘Large Jet Set’ Pocket Tote Was: $228.00 Now: $136.80 // BP. Infinity Scarf Was: $20.00 Now: $9.98 // Urban Decay ‘Vice4’ Eyeshadow Palette (Limited Edition) Was: $60.00 Now: $39.00

Thread & Supply Double Breasted Peacoat Was: $58.00 Now: $28.90 – $37.90 // AG ‘The Stilt’ Cigarette Leg Jeans (Four Year Dreamer) Was: $225.00 Now: $135.00 // Paige Denim ‘Skyline 12’ Skinny Stretch Jeans (Twilight) Was: $158.00 Now: $94.80 // Lucky Brand ‘Brooke’ Skinny Jeans (Palmdale) Was: $99.00 Now: $59.40 // Sun & Shadow Intarsia Stripe Blanket Cardigan Was: $68.00 Now: $40.80

Let’s break it down.

This BP. Colorblock Blanket Scarf is marked down to $14.98, and it would be the perfect accessory for layering over so many colors if the weather ever decides to get the memo that it’s wintertime. In fact, this is in my cart!

colorblock scarf

My Sun & Shadow Intarsia Stripe Blanket Cardigan is back in stock and on sale for $40.

Sun & Shadow Intarsia Stripe Blanket Cardigan

And my Sun & Shadow Turtleneck Sweater is also back in stock and still on sale for $32.

turtleneck

The BP. Scoop Neck Long Sleeve Tee never seems to go on sale, but for $18, it’s a steal. I have it in 2 colors, and I rarely buy duplicates of anything. I love it for layering under cardigans or a blanket scarf.

tshirt

The Cotton Emporium Cable Front Sweater is still on sale for $32.

cable front sweater

These Gucci 57mm Retro Sunglasses are marked down to $154, and they are super trendy and cute if you’re in the market for a new pair of sunglasses. I also like this rounder pair.

gucci sunglasses

That Bobeau One-Button Fuzzy Fleece Wrap Cardigan that everyone loves comes in 16 colors and is marked down to $39.

bobeau wrap

This R Minkoff ‘Medium MAB’ Leather Tote is 50% off, for $132.49. That’s a great price for this classic leather tote. It comes in Bordeaux, Rose, and Ash. I am LOVING the Ash. Must. Resist. Temptation.

'Medium MAB' Leather Tote

Another fabulous tote is this MICHAEL Michael Kors ‘Large Jet Set’ Pocket Tote marked down to $136.80. It comes in sand, cherry, and black and well as steel blue, silver grey, and ballet pink.

michael kors jet set tote

Got a fur vest on your wishlist? This black Topshop ‘Leah’ Faux Fur Vest is reduced to just $74.99.

topshop fur vest

This BP. Infinity Scarf is just $9.98. SO cute!

infinity scarf

If you love makeup palettes, this limited edition Urban Decay ‘Vice4’ Eyeshadow Palette is marked down to $39.

Eyeshadow Palette

Every woman needs a peacoat (or two) and this Thread & Supply Double Breasted Peacoat is adorable. It comes in 5 colors, and it’s only $28.90 – $37.90!! It gets great reviews for such an inexpensive jacket.

peacoat

I also love this bright orange MICHAEL Michael Kors Down Jacket for $129.

MICHAEL Michael Kors Down Jacket

I was a bit disappointed with the lack of designer denim on this sale, but there are a few good deals, like my AG ‘The Stilt’ Cigarette Leg Jeans that are marked down to $135 (originally $225.) These are fabulous jeans, highly versatile. I love them with ballet flats and sandals in the summertime, or even casual sneakers. They also tuck well into boots in the wintertime. You can see me wearing them here.

Casual Fall Outfit with Converse, Moto Jacket, AG Jeans, AG The Stilt, White Tee, Weekend Wear

These Paige Denim ‘Skyline 12’ Skinny Stretch Jeans are marked down to $94.80 (originally $158.) This is a great dark blue denim for dressing up.

Paige Denim 'Skyline 12' Skinny Stretch Jeans (Twilight)

And for a skinnier leg, these Lucky Brand ‘Brooke’ Skinny Jeans are marked down to $59.40.

Lucky Brand 'Brooke' Skinny Jeans

I’m officially in the market for black OTK boots. I want a flat boot this time, since my brown ones have a heel. There are several on sale at Nordstrom, so I’ve been comparing and reading the reviews. I was drawn to the Andora by Louise et Cie for $99, but the reviews are mixed.
Andora

The Ivanka Trump ‘Livi’ for $109 is definitely a contender, but suede makes me nervous because we’re having such a wet winter. I already have quite a few pairs of suede boots, so I was thinking I’d go with leather for these.

Livi

The MICHAEL Michael Kors ‘Joanie’ Boot looks nice, but the lugged sole is more rugged than what I had in mind, and at $149, they are a little more spendy than I was hoping to go.

Joanie

I think I might end up with the Ivanka Trump ‘Livi’ boots and deal with more suede. It is the exact style and shape that I want, and the price is right.

Splurge Worthy

If you’re looking for a splurge, the D Yurman large link bracelet is a great everyday piece. It goes with everything. I’ve had mine for years, and I still go for it several times a week because it’s so versatile.

D Yurman 'Oval' Large Link Bracelet

 

And this is the ring I got for Christmas this year. I love that it will go with everything.

Belmont Curb Link Ring with 18K Gold

Pour La Victoire: 40% off sitewide with the code HOLIDAY40PLV. They also have free ground shipping and a 60-day return policy. I love my Caron moto boots.

Pour La Victoire Caron Moto Boots

Tory Burch: EXTRA 30% OFF SALE STYLES WITH CODE MERRY. That includes these classic riding boots.

junction riding boot

And this stunning pink Britten Slouchy Tote that I’ve had my eye on for weeks. I am trying to resist the temptation!

Britten Tote

What to Buy at LOFT

LOFT is running a fantastic promotion — 50% off EVERYTHING (yes, even Lou & Grey!!!) with the code HOLIDAY50.

loft sale

That Cozystitch Sweater Dress is still available in limited sizes and colors.

cozystitch sweater dress

The Back Pleat Chambray Softened ShirtLOFT is available. I’ve styled this a few ways, but this is probably my favorite.

chambray - 1

My Cable Sleeve Sweater is still available too.

Outfit Ideas: Plum + Black

Other After-Christmas Sales Not To Miss

Stella & Dot: Tons of chic styles for sale prices!!!

stella & dot sale

Sephora: Take an extra 20% off online only with code EXTRA20!

Sephora 20% off Sale

Kate Spade: Take an extra 25% off sale items with code THRILL.

kate spade sale

Kohls: Take an extra 25% off already reduced prices with code SANTA25.

Kohl's Sale

J.Crew: take an extra 40% off winter sale styles with code SHOPNOW. Look for items marked with: “Extra 40% off with code SHOPNOW.”

cashmere turtleneck

R Minkoff: take an extra 25% off sale items with code BYE2015. SHOP SALE ITEMS HERE.

R Minkoff Mini Crosby Crossbody

Modcloth is running a post-Christmas sale, and that Fall Night Long Scarf is marked down to $9.99!!!!

down vest scarf

Macy’s: ONE DAY SALE with late breaking deals just for this event.

Macy's ONE DAY SALE

White House Black Market: Up to 70% off on select items.

White House Black Market Winter Sale

Johnston & Murphy: Select styles up to 30% off, including my Brynn Jodphur Booties. They also have free shipping and returns on orders over $100.

Johnston-Murphy-Brynn-Jodphur-Booties-1

NuMe Hair Products has is offering 50% OFF Sitewide + FREE SHIPPING (US ONLY) for ONE DAY, today only. This is a great time to grab that curling wand or straightener you’ve had your eye on. Use the code BLOWOUT50. This offer excludes the holiday collection, haircare and accessories.

style-setter

American Eagle: Take 20% off your purchase online and 25% off with the AEO / Aerie App with code MERRYPLZ. Jeans are excluded, but they have tons of cute sweaters and accessories.

aeo open knit sweater

Athleta: Extra 20% off sale items. Athleta is my favorite for workout gear. Their workout capris and yoga pants are the only ones I wear. Any other brands I’ve ever had, I’ve donated. Well, I take that back. I do have one pair of Lululemon winter running tights that I cannot live without. Otherwise, it’s all Athleta. They also have cute coats and sweaters for daily wear.

athleta

These Metro Skinny Pants are my favorites for wearing around the house on a lazy day. They look nice enough to run out to the store, and I wore them to my PT appointments all last winter.

metro skinny pants

So . . . what are you going to buy with your gift cards??? DISH!!!

Join The Conversation

36 Responses

  1. That MK bag has been calling my name too! Been keeping an eye on it. 😉

    I tried the Cole Haan wedges and they just didn’t feel right for me. A shame, because I was so hopeful. Still looking for a good comfy wedge walking shoe for Europe in April, if you have any ideas!

    1. Oh that’s too bad! They do slip a bit in the heel (I have that problem a lot with pumps) so I don’t think I would call them a walking shoe, but they’re great (for me) when I need to stand a lot. Not sure what I’d suggest for a wedge walking shoe . . . I generally wear flatter shoes when doing a lot of walking, such as the ones I suggest in my What to Wear to Disney post. What about these wedge Toms? Are they too high? https://bit.ly/1kf2Y06

  2. Those are great handbag selections and I have been lusting after those Toms booties all season!! Speaking of handbags, do you think that the tote will be popular this spring? I am already thinking of warm weather bags(: Susan

      1. Yes!! I love that style and the green is just dreamy!! I am starting to think about spring and summer bags, since I am on a shopping ban this month. I am thinking about a tote but I like a bag that can be worn cross body in the summer so I can be hands free. Maybe I need two;) Thanks! Susan

  3. Oh my word I love those sparkly flats from Target and that satchel is expensive but GORGEOUS! I am also going to check out the MAC blot powder you recommend. Thanks girl! You always have great taste.

    1. Oh no, I did try to find some lower priced pieces. You know, Kohl’s is one of those stores I’ve never really shopped at for clothes. I get kids’ clothes there but I don’t usually find much in the women’s department. However, I have a very stylish neighbor who does a lot of shopping there and gets tons of cute things. What are your favorite brands at Kohl’s?

      1. Definitely Apt 9 and Croft & Barrow. I have to shop in petites, so it is even harder for me to find clothes. And Gloria Vanderbilt jeans in petite short. Right now, I am trying to find things that can be worn for work and play. The choices are very limited for someone of my size :/

  4. I really wanted to get those leggings, only to find out when i click the link it cannot find them on Amazon for me. (I’m in canada, so it obviously uses amazon.ca) But do you have any suggestions for great leggings that I can get here??

  5. You always do a great round up of sales. In fact, as I was sifting through Nordstrom’s sale last night, I was hoping you’d have a breakdown up soon. I was hoping for a better denim sale too, but honestly, it’s just as well because I really don’t need anymore! Lol

  6. Love that Rebecca Minkoff tote in Ash! I’m not sure I’d be brave enough to carry it though due to the (light) color????
    If anybody has a light colored tote or purse, how have you been faring with it?

    1. I have a light grey satchel by Marc Jacobs but it isn’t THIS light. I know what you mean, but I think I’d risk it. I LOVE that color. It is great b/c you can carry it year round. Although I’m actually debating the pink Tory Burch tote. 🙂

      1. Oh boy, now I’m debating between the Rebecca Minkoff Rose color and the large Michael Kors Jet Set in Ballet. In my mind they’re a tad bit darker, lol.
        Congrats on getting your beautiful Tori Burch bag 🙂

        1. Yes, it came yesterday, and it is lovely!!! I like the size – bigger than a crossbody but smaller than the typical totes I carry. It’s a nice in -between, and the color is gorg.

          Did you end up getting one? I see the RM is gone.

          1. Nice!
            No, I ended up buying the Rebecca Minkoff Regan in Port and the Rebecca Minkoff unlined tote in Magenta for – drumroll, please, lol – $144????

      1. They are tight on the legs and do not slide down. I love them! The only thing is that I don’t think I’ll be able to wear them with jeans, only leggings. They are pretty tight on the legs. Beautiful tho, and the gold zipper is pretty in the back. Haven’t worn them yet.

  7. I used a Brighton Jewelry gift certificate to buy the Regina necklace. I like Brighton, and they treat their silver pieces with a lacquer coating so there is no upkeep.

    I also ordered blue Chooka rainboots from Kohls on the 24th, on sale. Shoebuy and Zappos also carry Chookas.

    I’m enjoying your blog posts with sale items and new finds! Thanks for doing them.

      1. I wanted to add that the Chooka boots came today – and I love them!! I bought the midnight blue color. There are many pretty colors. They run true to size or a bit big, and are comfortable, even in the toe box where I need a little wiggle room. So cute. No more wet feet for me. I think these are reasonably priced, especially on sale, for the great quality.

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