Click to visit Gucci handbags

Now this is in-store for all Gucci boutiques in North America. I know it has worked at the Toronto Gucci boutique, as well as several in the States, but I am not sure how (or when) the sales work overseas.

That said, May 20th kicks off the pre-sale at Gucci! All sale items for summer will be available to peruse and purchase. Now don’t get too excited because you aren’t able to take your purchases home until June 3rd, when the actual sale begins. The pre-sale is available for anyone who goes in and asks (preferrably a member of management) to see what is on “pre-sale.” At this point, you can browse through merchandise (or a large book, stating all sale information), and shop at your own pace. Typically, things are marked down 30-40% in this first markdown, but after this it’s pretty slim pickins’, so I’d strike while the iron is hot. Expect all S/S 2008 handbags to go down, as well as shoes and clothing.

To find out more, inquire at your nearest Gucci boutique. Remember this is for freestanding stores only…not leased departments at Saks or Neimans.

Check out the Gucci bags here

I can’t vouch for Lisa Curran designs, but I must admit that the merch on her website look feminine, simple and perfect for a vacay. Vix, on the other hand, is a well-known swimwear label that is favored by both celebrities and mortals alike. Now there’s a chance to pick up all of your holiday duds at slashed prices thanks to a little thing we love: a good ol’ sample sale.

What: Vix and Lisa Curran Swimwear
Why: Bathing suits for $65-$125, cover-ups for $30-$80, flip-flops for $10-$16.
When: May 13-16. Mon.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: 250 W. 39th St.
b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves.
ste. 510
(212-221-2349)
Cash only.

Since we’re dealing with swimsuits, be sure to know your general sizing before hand, and wear things that are easy to slip on and off in the event you try on a bikini top or two.

Click to visit Lela Rose

She’s the designer of choice for the First Lady and her daughters, so it expect homegrown florals and feminine frocks. Lela Rose is just the thing to wear to a summer wedding, and at sample sale prices, you won’t feel too bad about wearing it twice.

What: Lela Rose
Why: Fifty to 70 percent off cocktail dresses, day frocks, and anoraks.
When: May 14-16. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 224 W. 30th St.
b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves.
13th flr.
(212-947-9204).

Lauren Conrad has the wardrobe of the moment it seems. It’s packed with everything a girl could want, especially those countless sundresses. The one she’s wearing here is from Elizabeth and James, the licensed brand of the Olsen twins. Styled with her black lambskin Chanel jumbo and her Louboutin peep-toes, Conrad knows how to create a little sex appeal without going over the top.

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Photo: justjared.com

Commanding attention in that special way only slick, over-the-top shiny handbags can, this new Michael Kors Patent Tote is guaranteed to earn you some impressed looks this season. There’s nothing subtle about this hefty carryall, so don’t pick it up assuming you’ll go unnoticed. It’s chic and easy to wear with anything in your closet; it instantly adds sex appeal to a work ensemble and brings a glamorous glint to your plain Jane weekend wear. Best worn with jeans and a fitted tee, it really oozes with styling possibilities. Of course, let’s not forget about all that room. If you’re a heavy packer, you’ll love it. Available for $1295 at Nordstrom.