Everybody knows fashion and drama go hand in hand. I’m going to assume you are somehow aware of the drama surrounding the Yves Saint Laurent transition to Saint Lauren Paris under (controversial) creative direction of Hedi Slimane. Because he had a row critics stand at his first show, his contentious relationship with the press shouldn’t come as a big surprise. And yet, in a recent article by The New York Times, he was labeled as an “artist,” “diva” and “the one true heir to the legacy of Saint Laurent.” This all points out how well the first collection is selling despite the rather unflattering reviews.

I find this display of human nature rather interesting. While I don’t particularly like the fact that Mr. Slimane is making this revered fashion house part of yet another reality show, I am drawn to the brand more than I have ever been. Would I wear the witchy black hats? Not in a million years. I am, however, delirious with excitement for the upcoming Ruelala sale today.

Starting May 7th at 11 a.m. at RueLaLa.com: The World of Saint Laurent Women

Starting May 7th at 11 a.m. at RueLaLa.com: The World of Saint Laurent Men

I don’t know what your family calls this upcoming weekend, but we refer to it as the “Cinco de Mayo weekend” in our household. No, we are not Mexican. In fact, that’s one thing we are not. We are a little bit Jewish, a little bit Italian and I am (very) East European.

Believe it or not, Cinco de Mayo isn’t even that big of a holiday in Mexico itself. Instead, it’s become more of an important Mexican-American event in the U.S. The day serves as commemoration of the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War (which, by the way, lasted from 1861 to 1867).

Our family will be at Toloache on 82nd street, hopefully with a mariachi band serenading us, celebrating a new spring and the American spirit of respecting other cultures. Yes, Cinco de Mayo is somewhat commercialized and not historically accurate, but we’ve embraced it and found a way to make it ours.

Starting May 5th at 11 a.m. at RueLaLa.com: Sunday Supper – Mexican Night

Why?

If you’re feeling in the Mexican spirit, but realized it’s too late to make any reservations, this is the sale for you.

Starting May 4th at 11 a.m. at RueLaLa.com: From the Reserve: Hermes

Why?

This sale has nothing to do with Cinco de Mayo — and it certainly doesn’t need introductions. We all know our Birkins and Kellys. I will continue to mention them when I see them around, because just like diamonds, these bags never go out of style. If you can afford one, go for it. Nothing says, “I’ve arrived” more than a Birkin. They are the ultimate status symbols.

Starting May 3rd at 12 p.m. at Gilt.com: Monique Lhuillier

Why?

Now, let’s face it. If you can afford a Hermes bag, even a “pre-loved” one, you probably live the kind of life that requires a Monique Lhuillier gown or a cocktail dress. You may go to charity events, receive invitations that read “black tie event,” and have friends who let you know that the June weekend get together will be catered. (Hey, what do you know? I’ve just received one of those invitations!)

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

I interrupt your fashion perusing for a very brief history lesson. May Day — which is celebrated on May 1st around the world — is an ancient, Northern Hemisphere spring festival. The very first May Day celebrations began in pre-Christian Rome with the festival of Flora, the goddess of flowers, and later expanded throughout Europe in different forms. The one thing all those forms had in common, though, was that May 1st was a big cause for a party. The spring celebration (or first day of summer in certain cultures) should not be confused with the International Worker’s Day, though, which is also known as May Day.

Whatever you celebrate today, take a moment to do so thoughtfully. Or, if you celebrate neither, at least enjoy the lovely weather we’re having! Also, keep an eye on some of the sample sales below. They may offer a few of those summer twists you need to supplement your wardrobe.

Starting May 1st at 11 a.m. at RueLaLa.com: Coach Factory

Why?

The essence of spring style in a bag (or two).

Starting May 1st at 12 p.m. at Gilt.com: Alice + Olivia

Why?

Leave it to Stacey Bendet to infuse spring flavor into your wardrobe. Her line offers flirtatious dresses, bright colors, pretty prints and sleek accessories.

Starting May 1st at 9 p.m. at Gilt.com: Kanupriya and Grand Bazaar NY

Why?

It’s not often that you’ll hear us endorse costume baubles, as most of them look like, well, costume baubles. We’ll make an exception for Kanupriya and Grand Bazaar NY, though. These two designers bring an exotic mix of cuffs, rings and tassels of such extraordinary quality that they make us rewrite our own rules. Do take a look at tell us what you think.

By the way, as much fun as it is writing these segments, it would be more fun if I heard back from you. Thanks in advance. Happy May Day!

You know how some people love/hate Valentine’s Day? That’s exactly how I feel about Mother’s Day. Don’t get me wrong. I love my mother, but she lives in Europe and gets celebrated on March 8th. Which brings up my next point. I kind of like how the European version of the holiday takes a more inclusive approach to celebrating all women on that day. What if we don’t have children? Are we not worthy of being celebrated? Thank you, Hallmark, for reminding me every year how imperfect my life is. Have I mentioned that this year my birthday falls exactly on Mother’s Day?  Yeah, I know — I need something to cheer me up.

Starting April 25th at 11 a.m. at RueLaLa.com: Exhale Mind Body Spa

Why?

From time to time, we all need some “me” time and this is certainly the place to feel like a million bucks. Check out their classes too. They are famous for them.

Starting April 25th at 3 p.m. at RueLaLa.com: Luxe Gifts for Mom – Missoni, Versace and More

Why?

Why? Because you’ll find buttery soft satchels, belts, umbrellas and scarves from famous Italian designers that’d make any mother woman smile.

Starting April 25th at 12 p.m. at Gilt.com: DVF Ready-To-Wear, Glasses, Handbags, etc.

Why?

The legend behind the brand is a woman responsible for saying “feel like a woman, wear a dress.” DVF has also inspired a new generation of young designers with her sexy, powerful designs.

Ladies, let’s celebrate ourselves for what we are. Mothers or not — and regardless of race or religion — we do face an uphill battle here and everywhere in the world. Let’s try to help each other to the top.

Is there an age limit to wearing certain brands? I personally don’t think so, and I am not sure why companies continue to use teens to model their clothes. There is indeed a certain beauty in youth that no cosmetic procedure can replicate.

However, this is what I have personally discovered: I can get away with wearing youthful clothes (nothing ridiculously young though, like shorts or minis) as long as I feel good about my body. And that is why I have decided to lose 15 lbs.

Now, this might be more information than you need, but I need you to be my witnesses and maybe this will motivate you too to start the process of finding this new younger identity. And I will need the clothes to help me get motivated to lose weight.

Starting April 23rd at 12 p.m. on Gilt.com: Elizabeth and James

Starting April 23rd at 3 p.m. on RueLaLa.com: Currently Obsessed: Elizabeth and James and More

Why?

Somebody defined the Olsen sister brand as having “nonchalant sophistication” and I loved it because that’s is the kind of style I like to emulate. Looking for a perfectly tailored jacket, or a little black dress cut to perfection and adorned with unexpected details? These are excellent additions to anyone’s wardrobe, regardless of age.

Starting April 23, 3 p.m. at RueLaLa.com: Manolo Blahnik

Why?

I like the new changes at RueLaLa.com. First, they created a new time slot. While everyone rushes between 11-12 on flash sale sites, RueLaLa experiments with the 3 p.m. I personally like it, and I hope it works better for those of you with nine to five jobs. If I remember correctly from my nine to five days, that was about the time we were running downstairs for the second Starbucks of the day.

Oh, but I digress. I am here to tell you about Manolo Blahnik. What can I possibly tell you about Manolo that Carrie Bradshaw has not? Probably nothing. Just be there at 3 p.m.

Oh, how excited we are about today’s sales! Unapologetically luxurious, these sales are for the true fashion girl who has both the means and confidence to invest in extraordinary brands.

Starting April 18th at 11 a.m. at RueLaLa.com: The Luxe List

Why?

Shoes as art. Choose from brands such as Missoni and Casadei to adore your feet and closet.

Starting April 18th at 12 p.m. at Gilt.com: Halston Heritage

Why?

Halston Heritage, a company that was famous in the Studio 54 era, has recently reemerged with great success. Because they have just opened a location two blocks from where I live on Madison Avenue, I can personally vouch for them. Their materials and innovative designs make these pieces a solid investment.

Starting April 18th at 12 p.m. at Gilt.com: Marni

Why?

I love Marni — they truly dare to be different. I particularly admire their unexpected color and pattern combinations.

Live a little and get out of your fashion comfort zone.

I am feeling really guilty because I couldn’t write yesterday and missed recommending a few good sales. I hope you managed to find them by yourself. By the way, did you know that one in 100 people who get a tetanus shot have adverse reactions with flu like symptoms? Well, I was that one. Lucky me.

Back to today’s sales.

Starting April 17th at 11 a.m. on Ruelala.com: John Hardy

Why?

There are few good reasons to like John Hardy silver jewelry. They have a certain stylish boldness, excellent craftsmanship, and, as I have recently heard myself, they use environmentally friendly recycled silver from Bali. If you happen to play in team silver, this is a must to your jewelry box.

Starting April 17th at 12 p.m. on Gilt.com: Pour La Victoire

Why?

Another brand that satisfies my desire for “classic accessories with personality” is Pour La Victoire. The company has earned press accolades and the endorsement of some of the most prestigious stores since their 2007 inception. Pour La Victoire has a European flair (which I absolutely love), they use quality leather and have an awesome brand name. Having said that, I find it amusing that somebody introduced the brand as shoes for the 21st century Marie Antoinette. Let’s assume that we might not mind being known as frivolous, but I am certain that few of us would want to lose our blonde locks under the guillotine.

Starting April 17th at 11 a.m. on RueLaLa.com: The Epic Accessories Sale

Why?

This sale is ideal for people with various styles and budgets. It features a collection of the “most coveted” satchels, fine jewelry and scarves. Although no names were named, we are certain this one is for the brand connoisseurs, which I am sure most of you are.

Happy shopping!

Saturday is here. Well, not quite here, but close enough. Unless, of course, you play hooky today, and then your weekend is officially here. Either way, this is a great weekend, especially for those of you looking to shop. Don’t worry, the rain will pass.

Before you get to shopping, I suggest going through your closet to evaluate your current inventory. Then, think of a couple of looks you’ve come across that you want to “copy.” I love Pinterest for that purpose. In my opinion, it’s the best tool for creating a look board for your wardrobe.

Starting April 12th at 11 a.m. at Ruelala.com: The Final Sale Act 1

Starting April 13th at 11 a.m. at Ruelala.com: The Final Sale Act 2

Why?

To begin, RueLaLa is cleaning out their closet and I am sure there will be great finds there. Don’t forget that they do have a limited supply of products, so you have to be super fast.

Ruelala also has two great handbag sales:

Starting April 13th at 11 a.m. on RueLaLa: Handbags by Louis Vuitton & More

Why?

Oh là là. These are pre-loved French bags, so expect great style and prices. Absolutely authentic.

Starting April 14th at 11 a.m. on RueLaLa: Longchamp

Why?

Do you still miss Paris? Longchamp provides a more casual French bag; a perfect travel companion for an understated elegant look. They’re also a perfect choice if you’re shopping for Mother’s day gifts.

There are, of course, a ton of sales we didn’t mention since our (and your) time is limited. However, we don’t want to leave you for the weekend before sharing one additional must-buy.

Il Ristorante Rosi Parmacotto on the Upper East Side.

Gilt City has a “Four Course Chef’s Menu with Wine for Two” priced at $99. I have to tell you that this one’s a steal. The food is amazing. I’ve got my voucher already!

Have a great weekend. See you next Tuesday.

Are you familiar with the concept of needs and wants related to your personal budget and wardrobe? When you look at an item, are you able to quickly identify which category it falls into? Let me explain.

There are items we need in order to put together outfits that help us land a job or look good on a date. Then we have the “wants,” or the items that make us look fabulous and make our BFFs slightly jealous.

While a little dose of fabulous is necessary in anyone’s wardrobe, it’s important to make sure your needs and wants are in line with your lifestyle and budget. If your discretionary income allows you to have all the wants your heart desires, you probably don’t need to read my advice. If you do stick to a budget, though, a good rule of thumb is to dedicate 20% or less of your wardrobe to wants and the rest to your needs.

Today’s selection is a perfect example of needs and wants for the New York girl.

NEEDS

Starting at 11 am at Ruelala.com: Lafayette 148 New York falls into the needs category.

Why?

A New York brand, the label is a perfect recommendation for a desk-to-date collection, a safe bet, and a must have in my wardrobe.

Starting at 11am at Ruelala.com: Chan Luu Jewelry

Why?

The famous wrap bracelets will most certainly enhance enough outfits to make it a sensible investment, therefore could be a “need” for many of us. I have a purple one and I am looking today for the same style in another color.

WANTS

Starting at 11am at Ruelala.com: Lanvin

Why?

Lanvin is the oldest fashion house in operation, still true to the vision of its founder, Madame Jeanne Lanvin, who valued fine craftsmanship and extraordinary ornamentation above all. While patent leather cap-toes and an “it” bag are necessities, the prices of this reputable fashion house make it prohibitive for most. Do I need it? No. Do I want it? Oh yes.

It appears that April 10th is the 100th day of the year. Who knew?

I have to admit that today I suffer from fashion fatigue. I know it’s my fault, as I have been spending way too many hours researching sales, looking at department store trends, blogs, etc.  I need a break. With that said, I think it will be refreshing for everybody — myself included — if I switch my recommendations for the day from fashion to home items.

Because we recently purchased a house, I am constantly on the hunt for new things. As it just so happens, today there are three sales that I am really looking forward to.

Starting at 3PM at Ruelala.com: The Gourmet Pantry

Why?

I have to tell you that the best thing about having a house is the pantry. I still remember the joy and confusion I experienced after realizing the pantry was bigger than my whole NYC kitchen. As I love buying great olive oils — there is nothing better than fresh bread, olive oil and a good glass of wine — this is the sale for me.

Starting at 9PM at Gilt.com: Pet Style – LoveThyBeast & P.L.A.Y.

Why?

This sale is a must because there is no limit to the love I have for my dog. Some people might call it obsession. I call it love.

Starting at 9PM at Gilt.com: Trend Alert – Yellow and Gray

Why?

I’m shopping this sale because it’s the color combination I chose for my country home living room and I still need wall art and some pillows to finish up the look. The duo is also a strong trend for 2013. If you don’t have a new house to furnish, but you want to refresh the old one, you can always store your current pillows and curtains and swap in new ones. I personally like to move around my furniture from time to time. I think it’s a good opportunity to clean the areas that may otherwise be hard to reach. It also makes you feel like you have a new space.

Now, put on your Martha Stewart decorating hats and go shopping for your home. What are you waiting for?