Are you looking for something to get into after work today? How about a new pair of jeans? Belle Ville's Promenade on Providence is hooting a $69 Miss Me Denim party tonight. The fun starts at 6 p.m. and will continue until 9 p.m. Bring a friend and you can compare "bums" as you try on a selection of $69 denim! You can also enjoy a glass of champagne and half off almost everything in the store and another 20 percent off the spring preview rack.

You can even call ahead to reserve a pair at 704-847-5352 ... I got that tip from a little bird so I just thought I'd pass it off to you since the selection is limited. Don't miss out!
Belle Ville is located at 5341 Ballantyne Commons Parkway, Suite 350.
T. Strong is a TV personality, personal stylist and fashion journalist who contributes commentary on Creative Loafing’s Klepto blog in addition to writing for several other national media organizations. To learn more visit www.StyleMayvin.com or follow “therealtstrong” on Twitter.
I’ve been trying for months to transform my drab apartment into a modern oasis. The only problem is, I have as much interior design ability as a 4-year-old finger-painter. This being said, I've decided to take some initiative and check out the displays at the Charlotte Spring Home Show. The home showcase happens Jan 20-22 at the Metrolina Expo, 7100 Statesville Road.

Don’t get frustrated by your lack of home improvement skills, circling the home-improvement stores like a lost puppy — let professionals guide you through the process. Hundreds of on-site exhibitors have inexpensive and effective tips for creating your dream space. Product demonstrations are also available for the disinclined handy-workers like me. You can also browse through countless indoor and outdoor exhibits for ideas. Find everything from kitchen and baths, windows and doors, roofing and siding, flooring, hot tubs and pools, sunrooms, decks and fences, and even mattresses.
Admission and parking is free. For more information about the show, visit www.acshomeshow.com.
Last week, I stopped by Slate Interiors to chat with Debbie, one of the owners. While I walked around the Plaza Midwood store, I fell in love with this:

Now, if only I could get my boyfriend to agree to splashing some pink on our walls or buying those throw pillows. (He's an ex-Marine and gamer who rarely leaves the living room. Somehow, I don't think he'll agree. Sigh.)
Slate Interiors is like one very cool flea market, targeting the fashionable, creative, and weak-willed like me who are looking for pieces of art and other home furnishings. More than 50 artists, merchants, and designers offer a wide and ever-changing variety of quality merchandise. If you're looking to spruce up your living space — or just like looking at pretty things — head here.
If you haven't fanned Monarch on Facebook, I highly recommend that you go ahead and do so now.
Each day, the "inspired collaborative boutique" offers a sale on a different item. Today, they're doing 20 percent off anything with one-shoulder. Yesterday, the deal was 20 percent off anything green.
They really stay true to that famous quote from Forrest Gump: "Life is like a box of chocolates — you never know what you're gonna get."

Found on Scout & Molly's Facebook:

This gorgeous, royal blue one-shoulder dress is too cute. It's a new arrival to the shop, and going for $64.
So what if it's like 30 degrees outside. We as shoppers need to plan ahead for warm weather — and I know I'd look damn-fine in that dress come May when I can bear to show my legs again.
See what else has arrived by checking out their page.
Are you ready for this? On the heels of probably the most shopping you've done in the last 12 months is a winter clearance sale that would make any jewelry lover swoon. Happening at Handpicked (with three locations in Charlotte), prices are up to 75 percent off. In fact, you can receive 25 percent off regular priced items by printing the coupon (below) and with such a eye-catching selection, you'll be sure to find something to complement one of your many looks you've purchased for the new year.
Handpicked has trendy jewelry, accessories, gift items and sterling silver jewelry, some of which can be beautifully personalized with monogramming. This chain store has everything from necklaces, bracelets and earrings to purses, scarves, sunglasses and handbags.

There's a little something for everybody, and honestly it's not too early to start thinking about upcoming graduation gifts. I spotted a classically chic sterling silver bracelet that can be customized for any occasion, that would be the perfect item for a fashionable young woman — and it's been one of their best sellers for years.

The sale runs through Sunday so visit one of their three locations today!
Dilworth
1721 Kenilworth Ave.
Arboretum
8040 Providence Road
Blakeney
9844-A Rea Road
T. Strong is a TV personality, personal stylist and fashion journalist who contributes commentary on Creative Loafing’s Klepto blog in addition to writing for several other national media organizations. To learn more visit www.StyleMayvin.com or follow “therealtstrong” on Twitter.

If you missed your opportunity to receive a Million Dollar Makeover with Macy's and Clinton Kelley last year, no need to worry. The contest is back again for 2012.
The contest kicked off yesterday, and just as in 2011, the winner will receive the makeover of a lifetime. Clinton Kelley, Macy's style expert and co-host of TLC's What Not To Wear and ABC's The Chew was quoted in a press release, saying, “I’m thrilled to be back hosting Macy’s Million Dollar Makeover. Last year was a whirlwind of excitement and has given me a renewed sense of accomplishment and enthusiasm. Not only will this year’s winner receive one million dollars, but we’re helping bring his or her dream to life!”
I was personally so thrilled to hear about this contest that I considered entering, and after dreaming of all the possibilities last night, today I have decided to move full steam ahead and go for it. So, if you've been bitten by the makeover bug and want to try your hand at the contest too, entries will be taken through Jan. 31. Simply log on to www.facebook.com/macys, like Macy’s Facebook page, and then submit a short entry video about your goals and aspirations in the areas of food, fashion and home.
Last year, there were more than 19,000 entries, so I'm sure competition will be even tougher this year. But hey, one thing I can say is that I'm sure my odds of winning are better than hitting the lotto. Right?
T. Strong is a TV personality, personal stylist and fashion journalist who contributes commentary on Creative Loafing’s Klepto blog in addition to writing for several other national media organizations. To learn more visit www.StyleMayvin.com or follow “therealtstrong” on Twitter.

I think there's just something about a semi-annual sale that gets my shopping juices flowing. If you know what I'm talking about, then you'll be excited to hear about Sobo Loft Boutique and Gifts' semi-annual sale event, starting today. Get up to 75 percent off on select merchandise, gifts with purchase and special drawings.
Try to restrain yourself.
1820 South Blvd., Suite 200
704-333-3422
Now that you've shopped yourself silly for others, it's time to splurge on yourself. Here are some local shops having a sale, just in time for you to snag your New Year's Eve ensemble ... with accessories! Happy shopping!
Monarch: Today, everything sheer is 20 percent off.
Belle Ville: Today and tomorrow, 20 percent off fancy-schmancy clutches and accessories. (Side note: Make an appointment with our expert stylists this week and automatically receive 20 percent off your entire New Year's Eve outfit. (Minimum purchase required. Subject to availability. Not valid with other offers or promotions.))
Scout & Molly's: Through Saturday, 20 percent off denim and jewelry.
KLa: Today only, 30 to 60 percent off entire store.
Lotus: 25 percent off all dresses, 30 percent off coats, 50 percent off all reduced sale items.
KK Bloom: All coats, furs, and 'sparkles' are now 40 percent off.
Heels.com: Through Wednesday, use Coupon Code "CHAMPAGNE" for 20 percent off your entire order.
Fresh: Cashmere, cords, and much more at 40 to 60 percent off, plus 50 percent off handbags and select jewelry. Not to mention a 70-percent off selection.
Petal: 40 percent off all fall and winter items, plus all sale items are an extra 40 percent off.
Sobo Loft: All Christmas Decorations 50 percent off through Jan. 31.
Our Place: Select fall and winter clothing, up to 75 percent off.
The date has been set (Feb. 11) for the 5th Annual Runway for the Ballet, and tickets (purchase here!) are now available for purchase.

From the press release:
Opening Night Insiders is excited to host the 5th annual Runway for the Ballet, one of Charlotte’s premier fashion events. Presented in two shows, the 4PM matinee provides fun and fashion for all ages, complete with a pre-show reception including complimentary drinks and hors d'oeuvres. Then, at 8PM, find your most stylish outfit and celebrate a night out at our evening performance and post-show reception. Don’t miss this night of high-fashion, fun and dance!
This event will definitely sell out, so make sure you go ahead and reserve your tickets now.
For more information, check out the live review we wrote earlier this year. You can also visit the NC Dance Theatre's website. The event will take place at Patricia McBride and Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux Center for Dance (701 N. Tryon St.).