Get That Summer Glow Goin'

Just visited the new midtown spa, Bronzeado. They specialize in spray tanning, and guarantee that their process will not leave you streaky, freaky or orange -- so even the most sun sensitive can get a sun-kissed look. I am a sun lover and tanner, myself, but I could not resist trying the spa's "signature" facial, which uses Jurlique products (all natural). LOVED IT! Contact www.bronzeado.com

Of Sales and Sizing

As every smart shopper knows, there's nothing like a clearance sale to max out a credit card. So when sale shopping, follow a couple of simple rules and you won't suffer buyers remorse. For clothing: Look at everything on the racks, try only things in great condition and don't be stuck on sizes. A Size 6 does not necessarily fit true, and what passes for a size 42 in European designers can vary. You have to look at the garment to see whether it fits your body type and/or whether slight alteration might make it a worthwhile purchase. Not everyone can do this so if you're style challenged, call me. When it comes to accessories, use the sale period to buy shoes/bags that add style to your wardrobe. Accessories have a long life span in a wardrobe, which means you can, and should, take some chances... at 40% off.

Pianurastudio: Bellissima!

Run, do not walk (actually you may have to drive!) to Basique Boutique in Richmond Hill for the latest from the outstanding Italian design group. Located on the upper level of Times Square www.times-square.ca, the store has THE MOST BEAUTIFUL clothing, shoes and accessories in the GTA.

Check out what I'm raving about: www.pianurastudio.it/

Sydney Lounging at Home

Check out the adorable Miss Wilkes in this outfit from Snug, on the Danforth. I bought it for her this past X-Mas, so don't even think about purchasing as we're into a new season (thank God) and a new collection. The store is definitely worth a visit, however, as they always have a great selection of kids wear ... and Mommy-wear too!

Okay, so you can't afford Miu Miu...

..No worries! There are fabulous shoes on sale at K&J Boutique, and it's worth the drive to First Markham Place. The fabulous Bella Poon, proprietor, specializes in comfortable, fashionable footwear for small sizes. She's clearing out the stock room, so GO! For more info call 905-474-3982.

An outstanding necklace by Su Martin

What can I say about this fabulous Canadian artist except ... she's fabulous! I particularly love this wearable sculpture, and covet her paintings. Check out her online studio at www.q66.ca.

When Retail Relationshops Go Bad

Like all the relationships I've had, my love of fashion has taught me the hard truths about retailers. Some are good, some are not -- and a lot of them have NO CLUE how to treat a customer. And when a retail relationship goes bad -- which happened to me this week -- you have to walk away, no matter how great the merchandise is (sad to say).

I put a deposit on a pair of boots at a boutique where I have been a VERY good paying customer, if you catch my drift. We're talking thousands spent in that establishment over a period of years. As I have recently become more aware of the need to better manage my spending, I put a deposit on the (expensive) boots and was expecting the boutique owner to allow me to pay off the balance over a reasonable amount of time. Two weeks later the owner called me to inquire about settling my bill and, instead of asking me politely whether I still intended to purchase or wanted to put more money down, got snarky about having to call me at all.

I ask you: is this a smart way to run a business? I know that putting a deposit on an item does not mean that a store will hold it for me indefinitely. However I do expect some forebearance as a regular customer and at the very least I would hope to be spoken to without attitude. In this case, it's clear the owner couldn't care less about me and I am so put out by the way I was treated that I am now prepared to forego my deposit and will never set foot in that store again.

Don't give me crap about "store policy". There are so many more impersonal ways to shop these days, that no one should put up with rude store owners. I'm sure those boots will end up on eBay, anyway...