Weekend deals: Shop local

New store to open in Kailua

Kailua General Store + 3rd Ave Shore will open its doors at 10 a.m. Nov. 30 with free shave ice and popcorn, hot dogs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and 5 p.m. kava tasting with music and more.

The store will specialize in old-fashioned classic toys, penny candy for keiki, local food items, The 96734 caps and tees, Mokulua Design succulents, fresh flowers, shave ice, and more.

The store is on Hamakua Marsh, 171-D Hamakua Drive. Look for the red muffler sign. Also, visit KailuaGeneralStore.com.

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Muumuu Heaven 

While in Kailua, stop by Muumuu Heaven, which is hosting a Green Friday sale that extends through Dec. 1. All MH items will be 20 percent off, and there will be free gift wrapping. Muumuu Heaven is at 767 Kailua Road. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Call 263-3366.

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Roberta Oaks

Sorry you missed the mimosas this morning, but it's not too late to catch the rest of Black Friday's deals from the local designer who is offering 15 percent off storewide through 6 p.m., plus special deals like $25 rack items.

If you don't want to mess with downtown traffic, take 15 percent off online at robertaoaks.com with the discount code: ROBFS 

Also, get 10 percent off storewide on Small Business Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Roberta Oaks boutique is at 19 N. Pauahi St.

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Sedona

No one likes those computer cookies that track our comings and goings online, but you'll love the cookies being offered at Sedona.

Just ask one of the store elves for a “Good Fortune” cookie, that when cracked open, will reveal a discount of 10 to 90 percent off your entire purchase of regular-priced, non-consignment merchandise.

The sale ends when the last cookie is eaten (one per customer while supplies last), but is anticipated to continue through Dec. 1.

Store hours this weekend are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Small Business Saturday, celebrating small locally owned companies, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Sedona is in Ward Centre.

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Tori Richard, and Kahala Sportswear

To ease your holiday shopping, kamaaina companies Tori Richard and Kahala Sportswear are offering free shipping (international orders not eligible) through Dec. 2, for those who shop www.toririchard.com or www.kahala.com. At either site, enter the code: GOBBLE13 at checkout.

In addition, those who spend $150 or more online with Kahala Sportswear will receive a free K-1936 cap featuring a distressed K-1936 logo patch and "Kahala" logo embroidery in the back. One size fits all, with color subject to availability.

Those who spend $250 or more online with Tori Richard will also receive a free logo cap. Also one size fits all, with color subject to availability.

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Jams World

Jams World is hosting Black Friday at the Surf Line Hawaii Factory Outlet for two days, Nov. 29 and 30. Shoppers will find deals such as men's shirts from $10, select dresses at $25 or two for $40, separates from $10, T-shirts from $3, logo sweatshirts at $5, and accessories from $1.

The sale runs 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. The outlet is at 1451 Kalani St. Call 847-5985.

Holiday with Fashionista's Market

Nadine Kam photos
YogurStory was home to a Fashionista's Market pop-up Nov. 23. Deals continue on Black Friday.

Fashionista's Market hosted a Haute Holiday event Nov. 23 at YogurStory as a prelude to Black Friday events.

The pop-up shop offered a much calmer way to shop for clothing, notebooks, candles and scents for the home, and jewelry from Stella & Dot.

Before or after shopping, guests could relax upstairs with a chair massage by a therapist from Shiatsu Therapists of Hawaii, and enjoy a treatment at the Rodan+Fields Facial Bar.

Shopping deals continue at the downtown store until 6 p.m. today, with 25 percent off all merchandise in the store, save for local designer lines.

There will also be prize giveaways, a free mini dress with a purchase of $125 or more, and a gift certificate sale. Purchase $100 in gift certificates, and get a bonus $20 gift certificate.

A display of FM wares.

FM's Alyssa Fung, right, and stylist Crystal Pancipanci made sure guests were pampered.

Shoppers could learn more about Rodan+Fields dermatology line.

Jade by Nikolai hosts Speakeasy jewelry party

Nadine Kam photos
A garden of jade flower rings by Nikolai Tsang of Jade by Nikolai.

We can always trust jewelry designer Nikolai Tsang to come up with the best theme parties. Her latest invite came in the form of a weathered-looking swatch of fabric offering a date, time and password: Jade by Nikolai, for entering her Speakeasy.

Apparently, nearly a hundred years since the era of Prohibition, some people don't know what a speakeasy is. As guests arrived, some asked, "Were we supposed to dress up?"

Yeah! In Roaring '20s style consistent with the gangster era, when a nationwide ban on the sale, production, importation, and transportation of alcoholic beverages from 1920 to 1933 led to a boon in illegal alcohol sales by the likes of Al Capone and Bugs Moran.

Speakeasies were underground establishments that illegally sold alcohol.

The theme was appropriate for a year that seemed to be marked by a fascination for the 1920s, beginning with the anticipation for Baz Luhrmann's film interpretation of "The Great Gatsby," and ending with the start of the TV mini series "Bonnie & Clyde," set to begin airing Dec. 8 on A&E, Lifetime and the History Channel.

Tables were draped with pearls and white plumes, while in the back there was a makeshift bar and barrels for decor.

The prohibition movement, also known as the dry crusade, was led by religious groups that gave rise to temperence groups that associated liquor with moral decay and prostitution. If all of this seems far and away, it should sound very familiar. It's interesting to note how similar the 1920s are to this time, from the economy to the religious fervor over same-sex marriage and saving our souls from marijuana. Never mind that the current war on drugs has only led overseas thugs to profit from our misery. History does repeat itself for those who never learn its lessons.

Interestingly, I read a study of the politics of alcohol a while back, and it was noted that cultures who view alcohol as a normal, accepted part of life, such as enjoying a glass of wine at the dinner table, have no problems with alcohol. It's only those nations that look at it as an evil that have problems with alcoholism, because by casting it in an evil light, it is construed as something to seek, covet and hide when in such judgmental company.

Nikolai Tsang helps one of her clients trying on a lariat of leather and black pearls. They are both wearing her jade watch and jade bead bracelets.

But, this party was about fun, and raising funds for the Laulima Giving Program, not politics, and guests walked into a cavernous warehouse whose entrance was blocked by Hank's Haute Dogs truck, offering Chicago or lobster dogs to party goers. For those on the outside though, the giveaway that something special was going on withing the industrial space was the presence of valets and umpteen cars.

There was lots of food from Hank's, The Pig & The Lady, Kau Kau Grill and pizza, but women mostly spent hours poring over Nikolai's jade, diamond and gemstone pieces for the holidays. As I looked at the jewelry, many one-of-a-kind pieces, I was told to get them before someone else does.

I was thinking, "What are the odds someone will have the same taste as me?" Though I should know by now my taste, though eclectic, is not unusual. As one boutique-owner friend noted, everything I touch sold immediately afterward, and she always invited me to come to her store and touch stuff.

As it turns out, I was eyeing an unusual diamond ring that formed an X on the finger. At $1,500, I didn't think it would be snatched up so quickly, but sure enough, by my second round, it was sold! I didn't even get to take a picture of it.

Nikolai with KHON's Trini Kaopuiki, who heads the television station's Laulima Giving Program. Proceeds from sales at the event will allow Jade by Nikolai to adopt 12 to 20 families in need, and fulfill their Christmas wishes.

Joanne Koyanagi tries convincing her husband Mike that she needs this pearl necklace.

Beauty Spot: Searching latest trends at Nordstrom

Nadine Kam photos
The Bordeaux lip was one of the Fall 2013 trends featured during the Nordstrom "Beauty Spot" event that took place Nov. 16 at Ala Moana Center.

There were hundreds of women who woke up early Saturday for the Nordstrom Beauty Trend Event, "Beauty Spot," highlighting the latest in skincare and cosmetics for Fall and Holiday 2013.

The event started at 7 a.m., and I prefer not waking up that early on a weekend, so I give these women credit for getting out of the house and lining up to get in. It just goes to show you how much women care about their appearance, and that in Hawaii we have to care more because of the damage inflicted by sun year 'round.

I have always gone out of my way to protect my skin with sunscreen, umbrellas, hats, etc., but as the dark spots emerge in specific places, I realized that for years—while living in Kailua—I let the sun shine on my face through the bedroom window in the morning, without thinking to pull the blanket over my head. No one really thinks they're in danger under cover of roof in their home.

I talk to a lot of the beauty experts when they come to town, and by far, fading dark spots is a major issue here. I've found a lot of products that work for other issues, but have not yet found the definitive dark spot remover, save for laser, and not everyone is a good candidate for laser treatments.

The three beauty trends highlighted were the redefined smoky eye, the graphic eye and the Bordeaux lip, with models showing the looks on the runway.

The show is always quick-paced and fun, with 21 brands getting 3 minutes each to show their newest product and make their pitch to the audience to come-and-get-it after the show. Those who do show up at the counters are rewarded with samples, gifts with purchase, and limited-edition packages that typically sell out!

This woman volunteered for a demo of Rodial's Glamoxy Snake Serum Mask. Normally, the peel-off would cover your whole face and the red clay and black licorice formula is good for tightening pores, exfoliation and removing blackheads.

It wasn't only about women that day. Men need to be presentable too, and this gentleman got a Bee Venom Super Serum and Dragon's Blood facial from Rodial. Other men stopped to ask questions when they saw the black Glamoxy Snake Serum Mask, definitely a showstopper when people see others in it. Brand rep Brenda Lavoie said people have also multi-tasked by wearing it as part of their Halloween costume, improving their skin while out having fun!

The cosmetic and fragrance department is also home to Diptyque, a French perfumer and maker of luxury candles, including a gift set of 10 candles, two iconic scents representing each decade of its 50-year history, for $130.

Alex Chantecaille, representing the brand founded by her mother Sylvie and sister Olivia, introduced Chantecaille's delicate plant- and rose water-based products, and shimmery fall eye colors.

Interspersed between beauty presentations was a mini fashion show highlighting a few of the season's trends, including looks from Top Shop.

Ferial Boukarroum, National Director of Sales and Training for Lancer Skin Care, shows Midweek managing editor and style editor Yu Shing Ting how to use the second-generation Microcurrent Power Boost, which helps massage facial muscles and stimulate deep layers of skin where collagen and new skin cells are produced. It's $250.

 Getting curls from a straightening wand.

Beauty trends and Pop-In at Nordstrom

Nadine Kam photos

The chairs and demo stations are in place for the Nordstrom Beauty Trend Show tomorrow. 

It'll be a busy day at Nordstrom Ala Moana tomorrow, Nov. 16, from morning to afternoon, starting with the store's bi-annual Beauty Trend Show highlighting the beauty trends, tips and products for fall, and Beauty Bash from 7 to 7:45 a.m. with demos and free samples while supplies last. Just follow the sounds of a DJ on site.

A runway show starts at 8 a.m., with models showcasing beauty trends and products, and about 21 featured brands sharing what's new in beauty and fragrance.

After the show, head to the beauty counters for consultations, demos, free samples and exclusive gifts with purchase, such as a bag with a $125 fragrance purchase.

Each Pop-In involves creating a specialized environment. The last installation had the ambience of a French garden. This one is more industrial.

Scorpion lollipops are $2.

Take a break for lunch, and if you're still in the mall in the afternoon, check out the new “Pop-In @ Nordstrom” holiday shop “4U: Brite Lites_Gift City.” A Launch party takes place 2 to 5 p.m. on the store's second floor, with sweet bites and sips.

The pop-in showcases gifts for the person who has everything, ranging from stocking-stuffers to indulgent designer exclusives.

Introduced last month, each Pop-In @ Nordstrom is curated and organized by Olivia Kim, Nordstrom director of creative projects.

For this second Pop-In, the selection includes two Fiat models, a custom black-on-black Rolex by Bamford, natural-history and science collectibles from New York’s The Evolution Store, Keith Haring skis produced by Bomber, Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 cameras, an exclusive collection of necklaces from Venessa Arizaga, Andy Warhol “So Many Stars” Bugaboo strollers, Kidrobot toys, and more.

The pop-in will remain open through Jan. 3, 2014. Shoppers can also browse online at Nordstrom.com.

The Cosmetics floor was already bustling with activity Friday afternoon. Brenda Lavoie of Rodial will be introducing the brand's new Bee Venom Super Serum and Moisturizer on Saturday, as well as a limited edition Dragon's Blood Kit comprising full-size Dragon's Blood Hydration Mist, Sculpting Gel and Eye Gel, for $125 ($195 value). Those who spend $175 will receive a full-size Glamoxy Snake Venom Mask ($84 value).

Ferial Boukaroum of Lancer Skincare will be demonstrating the brand's Micro Current treatment on stage and on the Cosmetics floor from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. tomorrow. Customers will receive a gift with any purchase. The gift comprises a Lancer full-size "The Method" cleanser, and Eye Contour Lifting Cream.

 Nordstrom Bunny Mirror iPhone 5 and 5S case in teal.

The Evolution Store "Grow It Venus Fly Trap" kit.

Venessa Arizaga Sugar Plum Necklace.

Now open: Freaky Tiki in Ala Moana's new Center Court

 Nadine Kam photos
The newly open Ala Moana Center Freaky Tiki store features a mix of outdoorsy and designer sunglasses.

Just in time for holiday shopping, Ala Moana Center will celebrate the completion of its new Center Court beginning 9 a.m. Nov. 16.

A court blessing and opening ceremony will take place at the new Centerstage, which is in the general vicinity of the former stage, but now open to the mauka side of the mall. There will be a Hawaiian blessing at 9, followed by lion dance at 9:10 a.m., hula performance from 9:30 to 9:45 a.m., and an 11 a.m. performance by the international jazz fusion band Hiroshima.

The new Center Court area has an additional 2,000 square feet of space to accommodate larger breezeways and easier access for shoppers through the center's Street Level.

The first of the area's new shops have also opened, including Big Island Candies, and a new sunglass store, Freaky Tiki, which hosted a media preview Nov. 14.

Freaky Tiki is a local store that was conceived in 2004, opening in the Outrigger on the Beach, and the Outrigger Reef, before branching out now to serve a local clientele with its tropical opticals and notion of fun, with more than 1,000 sunglasses in an open-cell display and ready to try on.

As owners Mark Babin and Marshall Marumoto said, "You can't say 'Freaky Tiki' without smiling.

With each pair you try on, it's like playing with a new identity, perhaps a sportier or more glamorous version of yourself.

The brand mix ranges from such sport- and performance-oriented brands as Oakley, SPY Optics and Maui Jim, to such luxury designer brands as Tiffany, Roberto Cavalli, Tom Ford, Dior, Gucci, and more.

Prada on display at Freaky Tiki.

Nao Nishitani finds a suitable pair.

Lianne Bidal Thompson tries on aviators.

Lena Morris goes for drama with Roberto Cavalli eyewear.

Kiyomi Furusawa tries on another pair of Cavallis.

There's plenty of room to maneuver around the displays allowing shoppers to try on several pairs without bumping into people in pursuit of "the one."

The shop's exterior, facing the Ala Moana Center Court's newly renovated street-level Centerstage and Santa's Workshop area.

Now open: The new Nordstrom Rack

About 1,200 were invited to a preview of the new Nordstrom Rack, which had its grand opening at the Ward Village Shops (next to T.J. Maxx), at 9 a.m. today.

You'll see the same mix of designer, contemporary and casual wear for men, women and children, accessories, handbags and shoes, as at the former store, but there's a lot more of it on two floors!

The ground floor features menswear, and the second floor houses women's and kid's wear, including shoes.

Let's just say it was difficult to take many notes while shopping for myself, and helping my co-worker Nina find something suitable for work, as well as holiday.

She said she can never find anything she wants to wear when she goes shopping and her fallback is beach dresses. We work in a casual office so there's not a strong incentive to look any better than our colleagues, but I just couldn't believe she can't find things to wear.

We ended up finding some cute dresses, but she needed some time to think about a possible purchase. Not everyone is as impulsive as I am.

The opening coincides with the start of holiday shopping deals with a Holiday Points Party and Double Points Weekend coming up as follows:

Nov. 23: Get 10 points when you spend $200 or more, and 3x points if you spend $1 to $199 between 9:30 a.m. and noon, when using your Nordstrom credit or debit card, only at Nordstrom Rack. (If you're a card holder and received an invitation, check the invite to RSVP for early admission from 8 a.m.)

Nov. 23 to 24: Earn 2x points between noon Saturday and closing Sunday, when using your Nordstrom credit or debit card, only at Nordstrom Rack.

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The new Nordstrom Rack is at 1170 Auahi St., Suite 102.

Bigger handbag and shoe selections await.

Holiday dresses for girls.

My co-worker Nina, in before and after photos, wanted a little help finding something more professional for the office, and possibly for the holidays. This Max & Co. dress fit both bills. Of course, if she were to wear it out, she'd have the right foundation garments to flatter and smooth any lines and bumps. Her first inclination was to head to the juniors section, which is the biggest mistake women make. There are exceptions, but there's a reason it's aimed toward "juniors," or teenagers. From style to fit to weight of fabric and the type of materials used, junior apparel is generally too flimsy for women's figures.

I was happy to find this Just Cavalli slip dress.

A Balmain skirt was another great find.

Ross moves into new location at Pearlridge

Nadine Kam photos
The newly open Ross Dress for Less store at Pearlridge Center, Uptown, is dressed for the holidays. Nutcracker figures start at $12.99, Santas from $14.99, and gift stockings run from about $7.99 to $9.99.

Holiday shoppers looking for the Ross Dress for Less store at Pearlridge Center last weekend were a little confused when they looked in the usual location to find it gone.

The store has a new location Uptown, where bargain hunters will still be able to find clothing, accessories and housewares at 20 to 60 percent off department store prices. The store is in the site that formerly housed Borders Books & Records. Enter through an elevator in the parking lot between Uptown and Downtown, or from the mall.

If you're on a tight budget, it's a good place to pick up holiday decor, toys for the kids and clothing for the family. I found holiday dresses in the $14.99 to $24.99 price range, and with the recent spate of cold, rainy weather—it was crazy driving through white-out conditions!—many shoppers were in the outerwear section, searching for something warm, whether for here or their winter travels.

Angel sculptures in silver and gold.

 A glint of metal can also be found in apparel, such as this sequined designer shift, and jewelry pieces for the holidays.

Lace is another of the fall trends.

A "Toyland" section is stocked with playthings for little ones.

More ornaments and decorative items for the holidays.