Discount Spotlight: J.Crew and free shipping

In my experience, J.Crew rarely offers free shipping but since their website is running a little slow right now, they've generously extended a free shipping code: FREESHIP. Take advantage of it as soon as you can and order up some of my personal current J.Crew favorites, like this cashmere rosette cardigan in a lovely carrot color. J.Crew's selection of summerweight cashmere is particularly amazing this season, including a beaded cashmere shell and this colorblocked cashmere Martine cardigan, which reminds me of something Jacqueline Onassis would have worn in the '60s.

A Sexy Cashmere Dress

There's no fabric more luxurious than cashmere, and rather than humdrum cashmere sweaters or scarves, Karoo by Mark Eisen brings us a black cashmere dress for the ultimate feel-good extravagance. South Africa native Mark Eisen is an expert in sleek, sensual style for women. The clean, minimalist lines of this dress caught my eye immediately, while the halter-style neckline is a sexy way to show off shoulders and arms. But when I found out the material was 100% cashmere, I was definitely sold. The dress lets you enjoy wearing cashmere in the summer, and easily adapts for cooler weather with a pair of intricately patterned tights, slim leather boots and a fitted blazer or coat. I love the concept of a summery, skin-baring dress made of such luxurious fabric.

Splurge on the dress at Revolve Clothing for $308.00. Not a terrible price, considering some simpler cashmere pieces retail for nearly the same amount!

Banana Republic Faves

Years ago, I used to work at Banana Republic in one of their massive, 2-story flagship stores. I started working there during holiday season and the store was busy every single day. On certain days, like Black Friday (after Thanksgiving), we had so many customers that you couldn't walk without hitting somebody or having to elbow and shove your way through the crowd. It was ridiculous. But I can understand why BR has so many loyal customers. Time and again, they come up with great pieces that are versatile, affordable, and trendy. Yes, they also offer plenty of your everyday, humdrum work basics (plain turtlenecks, tank tops, cardigans) but if you browse through the racks or on their online store, there's pretty much something for everyone. I've even scored great accessories (mostly big earrings, which I'm a huge fan of) from BR.

Here are some of my favorite picks from their latest season:

Long-sleeve cashmere argyle crewneck, $168

Cashmere T-shirt dress, $158

Jersey tunic dress, $98

Luxe peacoat, $198

Long-sleeve shawl collar cardigan, $108

Mmm, lots of cashmere, warm sweater dresses, and chic fall style! And to make it all better, use Banana Republic coupon code BRGLAM15 at checkout to save $15 off orders of $100 or more. Hurry, because the code expires on 11/30/2007.