It has been a great Summer with lots of traveling and bargain shopping.  The following are some of the pieces I’ve picked up at tremendous savings, from T.J. Maxx, Neiman Marcus Last Call and the Goodwill.  Plus I’ll let you in on some bargain shopping tips & warnings.  First up are a couple of pieces I picked up at NM Last Call in Austin, which is possibly the best outlet ever, because they will add extra discounts to final clearance pieces.  My beautiful Ying Li long, hand painted, silk gown retail price was $375, the Last Call price was $135, the orange stamp meant an extra 75% off for a final price of $34.  I also picked up a couple of Leigh Bantivoglio silk and lace camisoles that were originally $175, then were final clearanced at $16 and they took an extra 25% off for a final price of $11.

I’ve mentioned my love of T.J. Maxx (or for our U.K. readers T.K. Maxx) and over the summer I stocked up on Undrest wonderfully comfy,  pima cotton loungewear, picked up Nougat of London candles & body lotions and just last weekend during there Final Clearance Sale, I found Natori knickers and Wacoal bras for under $3.  I have no idea when they will have another final clearance sale, but it’s worth signing up for the newsletter.

Some of my best finds came unexpectedly from the Goodwill.  I love the chance to mindlessly wander the racks of thrift stores and I was rewarded with a lovely gown from Emilio Pucci for Formfit Rogers.  It’s not one of his signature prints, but it does have his signature embroidered in several places within the lace.  If you click on the picture you should see his name in the center.  Where else can you buy vintage Pucci for $4, only at the Goodwill.

Another source of bargain shopping (heck, most shopping) is something called Twitter.  If you haven’t heard of it here is a YouTube tutorial.  If you’re on Twitter here are some great people/sites to follow for the latest fashions and tips on fabulous finds:

LuxeTips

Lollieshopping

StyleIt

Coutorture

and finally another warning about eBay, please do your research before bidding, it’s as simple as running a search.  For example, I needed a make-up case, checked ebay and found Sephora limited edition train case (rrp. $78) for $39 to $49 plus $10 shipping then I checked Sephora’s site and there it was, on sale, for $39.  And if you spend $50 you get free shipping (pick up a couple of  Perdis lip balms for this winter) and free samples.  Sadly for the bidders, they over paid with the first bid.  There are deals to be found, but now more than ever you need to do your homework.

The lovely ladies at Panties Required are offering 25% off ALL Cosabella lingerie, from now until September 30th, just use promotion code: SAVE25 at checkout to redeem your discount.   My favorite is the sweet & sexy Celine camisole, it’s great for everyday wear, whether you pair it with the matching brief or your favorite sweater & jeans (rrp. $44) but with your discount it’s now only $33.

In need of extremely hot swimwear to brighten your Fall days, well Argentina’s Jane Pain’s Annual Swimsuit Sale promises savings of up to 70%.  The site is in Spanish, but is fairly easy to navigate and they ship worldwide.

Stockingirl’s  End of Summer Sale offers an extra 50% off lingerie and clearance  (use coupon code:444)  or save 33% off your entire purchase (use coupon code: 321) at checkout.  Coupon code 444 does not include shapewear and the coupon codes cannot be combined.  They’ve also added new inventory to The Bazaar -where merchandise is always $10 or less and if you spend $100 or more shipping is free -within the US.  If that’s not enough you will also receive a Free trouser socks grab bag ($15 value) with every order.  Hurry these offers end September 15th.

This week BrandAlley has stunning lingerie from Dolce & Gabbana on sale -up to 60% off  with prices starting at £7, from now until September 11th.  This is a private sample sale, but if you would like to shop this sale and need an invitation, just drop us a line.  Unfortunately, they still don’t ship outside of the UK.

Our favorite French site Bien Fée pour toi is taking 15€ all their Autumn/Winter ‘08 ranges, including the gorgeous Caberet Set Alison just mentioned last week.  Just use promotion code: AH08 at checkout.    You can also save up to 70% off their Petits Prix collections.

Figleaves U.S. has taken further reductions during their Swimwear Sale.  Right now you can pick up Freya’s Panama Cooler bikini top for only $13 (was $44) and the matching swim shorts for $21 (were $42).  Other lines on sale include Aubade, Huit, Lisa Curran, OndadeMar, Princesse Tam-Tam, Vitamin A and more, so hurry, this sale ends soon.

During BeCheeky’s End of Summer Clearance Sale you can save up to 70% off. designer lingerie, 50% off swimwear and they’ve even put together a collection of sensual summer silks, also up to 50% off, for an extra little treat. They need to clear the shelves and make ready for the new season’s styles and designs, so the older stock is being cleared out. They also offer free shipping -within the UK, on orders of £50 or more.

Marie Clare Magazine has set up Haute Shopping,  another membership site, but all you need to do is sign-up (no invitation required) and right now you can pick up Lily of France bras 2 for $45 (reg. $30 each).  You can also enter their daily giveaway,  with a click of a button, to win things like a Kate Spade bag or a pair of Crocs.

Speaking of Sample Sales, here is a updated list and of course if you need an invite, just drop me a line!

Billion Dollar Babes (Bronze Membership)

The Gilt Groupe

Ideeli

The Top Secret

Koodos

HauteLook

Fashion Confidential (Absolutely Confidential free sister site )

Brand Alley (UK only)

Regents Secrets

Shecky’s

Beta Boutique

Rue La La

This was my second year attending Lingerie Americas Las Vegas & CurveNV and it seems, sadly, that the economy has really taking it’s toll.  The shows were much smaller, though CurveNV fared better than Lingerie Americas, which was swallowed up by MAGIC.  Still there were bright spots to be found at both shows, like the babe-a-licious retro clothing line from Stop Staring!.  They have gorgeous designs that looked great on various body types -sizes range from small to 2xl.  Shop Stop Staring! specials page or if you’re in the U.K. visit Hollywood Flame’s Sale for savings of up to 50% off. Want a Free Dress? Fill out this form with the name of a store that doesn’t carry Stop Staring! and you think they should. They’ll contact them and as soon as they become a paying customer, you’ll get a certificate to redeem for a Free Dress!  Need vintage lingerie to wear with your new outfit, check out Danae’s post.

Toute La Nuit Loungewear is launching their premier collection for Spring/Summer ‘09, which was inspired by a need for feminine, romantic, and sophisticated loungewear options, that didn’t resemble men’s pajamas, yet you could answer the door in.  Besides the design achievements, the fabrics they’re using (either 100% linen or 100% silk) are washable and also accommodate larger busts.  It seems too good to be true: sexy, sophisticated, 100% linen, washable and well fitting, it’s like a dream come true.  Alas, this line won’t be available until next year, but as soon as I know the stockist, I’ll let you know.

The multiple CILA award winning Marlies Dekkers  is one of my absolute favorites.  Her uses of fantastic patterns, colors and bold powerful, yet subtle cut-outs in unexpected places -which are meant to be seen, are a far cry from the usual embroidery and lace out there.  It explain why M|D’s trendsetting and innovative designs garner so many awards and fans.  Currently, you can find Marlies Dekkers on line at Mio Destino U.K.

On the other end  of the spectrum is Pluto Lingerie, which is as subtle as M|D is daring.  This clean, cool and confident lingerie whispers like a breeze.  The jersey range, reminded me of Skin Lingerie which is lovely, but the crisp cotton holiday range was a knockout.  I will be on the lookout for the pale peach tunic this coming Spring.   Pluto Lingerie can be found at Nancy Meyer in the U.S. and Pink Camellia in the U.K.,

Have a great holiday!

At Oyster Lingerie 2nd Anniversary Sale save 50% off sitewide including the Clearance Page -where items were already up to 70% off.  Find fabulous lingerie from Madame V, Huit, Glamour Puss and the glamorous new swimwear Alison just told us about, Mama Maria.  The best deal of the day are these GlamourPuss suede slippers were £50 now only £17.50.  When navigating this site remember to check the left sidebar.

Save up to 75% off during C&C California’s Labor Day Clearance Sale.  This is a great chance to stock-up on some cute, comfy loungewear for women, men and children.  My favorite is the green Rachel Hoodie (was $98, now only $19) Plus receive free shipping -within the U.S. on orders of $150 or more.

Save 25% off at A Brief Affair’s Clearance Sale.  You’ll find designer lingerie from Wendy Glez, Cosabella, Nina V. and more and for a limited time they are also offering free shipping on purchases of $50 or more.  Offer valid until September 8th.

Figleaves U.K. you can save 50% off during their Summer Swimwear Clearance where you’ll find brands like Vitamin A, Chloe, Fifi Chachil and more.  And don’t forget to checkout the Figleaves Clearance Center for savings up to 70% off.

At Figleaves U.S. you can save 70% off lingerie and 50% off of swimwear during their Summer Clearance Sale.   But the best news from F.U.S. is they are increasing the number of designers adding The Lakes & Stars, Elixir by Lejaby and Pussy Glamour.

BraStopU.K., your DD+ bra headquarters, is taking an extra 10% off their already reduced prices - including the Clearance Page, this weekend only.  Just use promotion code: SWIMSALE at checkout.

I’m back from Las Vegas and I have a lot of lingerie sales to tell you about so lets get started.

The more you spend the more you save at Shopbop -up to $250, just use promotion code: BOPFORFALL at check out.  Here’s your chance to pick up The Lakes & Stars Romper (as seen on Carrie in the SATC movie) for $25 off retail.  You will need to hurry, this sale end at midnight PST.

HerRoom’s storewide Fall Clearance Sale has started.  Now save up to 70% off hundreds of beautiful bras, panties, shapewear and more.  Plus if you spend $300 on eligible brands you’ll receive a Goodie Bag worth $300 containing products from these same manufacturers including Betsey Johnson, Chantelle, Elle Macpherson, Mary Green and more. Shop now for the best selection!

To celebrate the 47 medals the British won during the Olymics, BeCheeky is taking up to 47% off all U.K. designed lingerie, including Damaris, Frankly Darling, Vollers and Modern Courtesan.   Plus, if buy before 5pm GMT on Saturday 30th August, you’ll be enter to win £100 worth of lingerie.

There are only a few days left to shop Glamorous Amorous’ Summer Sale.  Save up to 70% on some of the most beautiful designer lingerie to be found.  Like this sensational silk babydoll from Rosannaansaloni, now only £49 (was £115). But you’ll need to hurry this sale ends midnight GMT, Sunday 31 August.

Shop the elegant Lille Boutique’s End of Summer Sale, where you’ll save 30-70% off all seasonal inventory from Fall ‘07 and Spring ‘08 from designers including: Araks, Eres, Poet, Kumi Kookoon, Princesse Tam Tam and more. And their shipping/checkout process has been streamlined (cheaper international rates) and free ground shipping on orders over $150 -within the U.S.

Other fabulous sale going on now include:

50% - 70% off during Agent Provocateur’s  Final Clearance Sale  and Free Worldwide Shipping with a minimum purchase of $90.  Sale ends August 31.

Mio Destino’s has taken final reduction -save up to 70% off, at their End of Summer Sale.  Find lingerie from Elise Aucouturier starting at $33, among other amazing bargains.  Sale ends August 31.

Save up to 60% off at AzaleasNYC sale.  Designer brands on sale include: Damaris, Huit, Jane Pain, Wendy Glez and Nina V.

On Thursday night, August 28th, from 8:00 pm until noon Friday, Rue La La online private sale features Cosabella Lingerie.  This is a members-only site, so if you need an invitation, just drop me a line: katie@knickersblog.com.

It’s my turn to take a wee holiday this coming week; Danae is in Portugal and Alison is heading off to the Harrogate Trade show on Sunday.  So while they are away, I’m sneaking off to Las Vegas and the Lingerie Trade Shows later this week.  I also plan to do a bit so shopping (I know, shocking) at Wynn Black Satin, Samantha Chang, La Perla, Agent Provocateur,  the sinfully delicious Vosges Haut-Chocolat (the sweet curry, coconut, milk chocolate Naga Bar is my favorite!) among others. And of course I plan to hit Neiman Marcus’ Last Call  at the Primm Fashion Outlet, it’s a 45-minute drive outside Las Vegas and Shuttles operate daily from the MGM Grand for as low as $20 round trip.  If you would like to meet up, just drop me an email at: katie@knickersblog.com.

Also, the wonderful ladies at Panties Required are offering Knickers Readers a special coupon to ease the Knickers Bargains withdrawal.  For one week only, save 25% off all Wendy Glez & Undrest lingerie, just use promotion code: knickers25 at checkout to redeem your discount.   Hurry this sale ends Monday, August 25th.

And before I leave here is a sneak peek (from the Daily Mail UK)  at the limited edition Dita Von Teese lingerie for Wonderbra -available in the U.K. on September 23rd.

Panties Required is taking 20% off everything in stock, but you need to hurry, as the sale ends Monday, August 18th.  Just use promotion code: SUMMER20 at check out to redeem this offer.  Plus you’ll receive  free shipping -within the U.S. on orders of $100 or more. And in spite of its name, they offer camisoles, bras, gorgeous loungewear as well as panties from well-known labels such as Wendy Glez, Eberjey and Cosabella.

Save up to 75% off bras and basques -available up to GG cups, at Undercover Experience.  The Panache white basque is now only £9 (originally £37),  their Superbra plunge bra is only £7 (was £23) and the Berlei lace bra is now only £8.  And don’t miss their Clearance Sale where you’ll find lingerie for 50% off from designers including: Simone Perele, Kiss Me Deadly and Rigby & Peller .

The sumptuous lingerie line Myla US and UK has added new inventory to their Summer Sale where you’ll find bargains of up to  70% off, but  again you  need to hurry, because this sale ends Tuesday, August 26th.

During Bluefly’s Semi-Annual Blue Sale you can save up to 70% on lingerie, lounge and swimwear from designers like Thomas Wylde, Leigh Bantivoglio, Wendy Glez, Only Hearts and more.

During FigleavesUS End of Summer Sale  -save up to 70% off select bras, panties and swimwear.

During Ever So Sexy’s Annual Clearance Sale save up to 50% off exotic lingerie and swimwear from brands including Sensual Mystique, Princess, Luxxa & Lola Luna plus free shipping -within the U.K. and £5.75 worldwide.  You’ll also receive loyalty points to use toward future Ever So Sexy purchases.  Hurry this sale ends September 30th or while stock lasts.

At Neiman Marcus save up to 40% off lingerie & swimwear and save an extra 33% off clearance lingerie during their end of the season sale.  They’re also offering free shipping on all orders if you use your Neiman Marcus credit card and the promotion code: NMCARD at checkout.

Ysandra’s Fine Lingerie Outlet just received new arrivals, at 60% to 80% off retail prices, from renown French designers like Millesia, Lise Charmel, Nina Ricci & Eprise (Lise Charmel DD+ range).  And if you buy a set you will receive an additional 10% off that includes Clearance items.  You’ll find deals like this Eprise basque (rrp. $309) now only $50.  They ship to the United States & Canada only.

Pick up great deals on some of your favorite swimsuits, bikinis and cover-ups during BeCheeky’s Holiday Swimwear Sale.  Save 50% off select pieces from Sunfolly, Moontide, Gottex and more and check out their Sale Pages where you can save up to 70% on lingerie and even more swimwear.  They also offer free shipping -within the UK, on orders of £50 or more.

At JK Lingerie you can save up to 75% off a wide array of lingerie and swimwear during their Summer Clearance Sale.  You’ll find a nice selection from designers like Mimi Holliday and Barbara of Paris to Charnos, Lepel, Ballet and Dreamgirl.  There is Mimi Holiday’s red silk bra and matching side tie panties set for only £19 and this fuschia bra and thong set by Ballet now only £7.50.  They also offer free delivery -within the U.K on all orders over £30 and they do ship worldwide for a nominal fee.  Sizes and selection are limited.