TAKE A PEEK
The passing of George Steinbrenner and the playing of the MBL All Star Game reminded me of just 
how passionate baseball fans are. This, in turn, got me thinking about Allen Edmonds and the store’s charming and nostalgic Tokens & Icons cufflinks. Made of sterling silver and featuring bits of recycled leather from baseballs used in major league play, they make a perfect gift, complete with certificates of authenticity. Also speaking to the passion of the sport is the company’s new All-star Sensation MLB collection. 
The ultra casual “Sandlot” moc with comfy rubber soul is made from leather distressed to mimic well-used baseballs. The forefoot of the shoe not only boasts signature red baseball stitching but also is “branded” with your favorite team’s logo. Worn with or without socks, they take to game, school or weekend events like a pro. 18900 W. Bluemound Rd., Brookfield, 262-785-6666; 201 E. Seven Hills Rd., Port Washington, 262-284-7158, allenedmonds.com.
This summer most shops are brimming with trendful dresses. Women of all ages and shapes can easily find a style that fits and flatters. Look for basic little black dresses, strapless maxis, smart career choices, sexy club dresses and sophisticated cocktail numbers in everything from brilliant solids to blossoming florals and perky prints. With so much to choose from, it matters little if you go glamorous, chic, playful
or frilly. The important thing is before summer’s over, get yourself a dress. You’ll find plenty on sale now at Fred (522 N. Water St., 414-270-1009, fredboutique.com) starting at just $48. Plus sized? Check out the beauties from designers like eShakti at Boutique Larrieux (717 N. Milwaukee St., 414-520-4651, boutiquelarrieux.com). Looking for great selection of all sorts of styles? Head to Miss Ruby Boutique (522 N. Water St., 414-755-2900, missrubyboutique.com).
Looking for something fun and interesting to do on a summer’s night? How about exploring the planets, galaxies and nebula of the celestial skies under the expert guidance of American Science & Surplus’ own 
Paul Chapman at a Star Party July 16 (8:30-10:30 p.m.)? The store, long a favorite of those in the know (like NASA Astrophysicist Dr. Michelle Thaller who spoke at a recent Star party), as well as those who enjoy the fun of learning, will host a telescope workshop 6:30-7:30 p.m. prior to the 8:30-10 p.m. viewing. Bring your own telescopes and binoculars, or use the ones they’ll have set up. In either case, you’re bound to have fun. Oh, and if you’re bringing the kids (which of course you should), don’t forget to download the coupon for a free Harry Potter Astronomy Kit with any purchase of $5 or more during the event. 6901 W. Oklahoma Ave., 414-541-7777, sciplus.com.
I’ll admit it, I love exploring the treasures to be found at the Garden Room. So you better believe I’ll be shopping there July 17 (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) for its storewide 20 percent off sale and so will you if you’re a fan of quality garden tools, always interesting decorative accessories, pots and gifts. While shopping, make sure to stop in for a cuppa tea or lunch at the Anaba Tea Room located in the store’s lower level, and don’t forget to take a stroll through the rooftop urban garden. 2107 E Capitol Dr., 414-963-1657, gardenroomonline.com.
SAVVY STUFF TO DO
The Historic Third Ward holds another Sizzlin’ Saturday outdoor market at Historic Commission Row (300 block of N. Broadway) on July 17 (10 a.m.-6 p.m.). Check out more than 40 merchants selling antiques, art, clothing, jewelry, collectibles, fresh produce, flowers and lots more, as well as a fashion show featuring Third Ward boutiques, face painting for the kids and delish food like wood-fired pizza and chicken-on a spit. Neighborhood shops also get into the act with specials like Lela’s 20 percent discount on cool consignment fashions. Something I enjoyed at the last street event was the opportunity to shop lots of creative offerings by independent artists such as Danika Radzins and Theresa Siudzinski who normally sell their jewelry and crafts on etsy.com. For more info visit historicthirdward.org.
Another neighborhood to hit is Whitefish Bay for its Red Wagon Days July 16-17 (10 a.m.-5 p.m.). The annual event features live entertainment, a silent auction, a dozen decorated Radio Flyer wagons ready to be filled with donations to Goodwill Industries and sidewalk sales from Winkies, Gallery 5050, Elements East, Hounds Around Town, Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers, Les Moise and more. shopwhitefishbay.com.
Given today’s economic squeeze, I’m a firm believer in signing up for retail e-mail blasts to stay in the loop for upcoming events or store sales. For instance, I just got an e-mail from Wine Cellar of Wisconsin (12910 W. Bluemound Rd., 262-754-9463, winecellarofwi.com) offering up a great deal on bottles of Bodegas Norton Malbec 2009 Mendoza. At $10, this everyday red wine, perfect for summer burgers, was recently awarded a “Best Buy” standing by Wine Enthusiast. Now through July 21, however, the store’s e-mail club members can purchase it for just $6.49 a bottle or $71.99 for a case of 12 (that’s just $6 a bottle). Plus I just got an e-mail from Thief Wine (400 N. Water St., 414-277-7707, thiefwine.com)letting me know that in honor of Spain’s World Cup Championship, from now through July 16, the store is trimming the price of all Spanish wines by 10 percent.
Help kick off this year’s Aids Walk 2010 in style at the launch party and LIFE 3 Walk Down the Runway fashion show being held on the patio of Aloft hotel July 15 (7-11 p.m.). Shows held at 8 and 10 p.m. will feature fashions from Luci, White Star, Falcon and Lounge. Stand and look cool or opt for VIP seating for $25. 1230 N. Old World Third St., 414-220-8799.
CHECK OUT
Now at Design Within Reach: Outdoor Clearance Sale saves shoppers up to 60 percent on ultra-cool and design-forward outdoor items. 167 N. Broadway St., 414-224-5353, dwr.com.
Now through July 18 at Blush: Huge sale trims 10-20 percent off on summer essentials like Coola Suncare, Blister Elixir, hair care and summer fragrances. In addition, save 40-50 percent on all overstock and discontinued items and pick up some great deals on the $10 table. Can’t make it? The store is offering free shipping on orders more than $30 now through Aug. 30. 249 N. Water St., 414-272-1718, blushmilwaukee.com.
July 15-19 at Faye’s (Brookfield location): Huge cashmere sweater trunk show featuring tees to outerwear fashions in updated classic to contemporary chic styles from White + Warren and VKoo. 249 N. Water St., 414-272-1718, blushmilwaukee.com.
July 17 (11 a.m.-5 p.m.) at Vieux et Nouveau Boutique: Trunk show featuring Tr’sh Anne soft leather handbags created by the Milwaukee designer known for her unique detailing. During the show receive a free pair of sterling silver handcrafted earrings with the purchase of any bag. 1217 E. Brady St., 414-287-9049, boutiquemilwaukee.com.
July 17 (9-11 a.m.) at the Shorewood Police Department garage: Because there are great deals to be found at this annual bike sale and stuff goes fast, best get there early with cash or checks. 3936 N. Murray Ave.
July 17-18 at The Elegant Farmer: Old-fashioned Farm Fair celebration includes games, pie-eating contests, a visit with the world’s tallest farmer, electric train rides and food favorites like farm-fresh roasted corn, grilled brats and dogs, caramel corn and waffle ice cream cones. 1545 Main St., Mukwonago, 266-363-6770, elegantfarmer.com.
Through July 24 at Roger Stevens: Save up to 60 percent on fine quality menswear from Andrew J., Barbour, Carrot & Gibbs, Scott Barber Seaward & Stern and more during the store’s semi-annual sale. 428 E. Wisconsin Ave., 414-277-9010, rogerstevens.com.
