The few times that I have gotten to go inside a truly beautiful store, I savor the experience. Being from the Midwest, in a smallish city mostly populated with big-box general merchandisers, the experience of being in a real department store is one that I savor. It feels like something out of a movie. I tend to go around with my mouth agape at all the pretty things!
My in-laws live in Kansas City, and we decided to forgo the early Black Friday crowds and instead go downtown to the beautiful Country Club Plaza and Crown Center. My MIL recently retired from management in Hallmark, and she has been dying to take me to Halls. The fabulous things she wears almost always come from there, and she and my sister-in-law love to hit their sale racks. Apparently the sales at Halls are famous. I was about to see why!
While the price-tags on most of the merchandise were WAY out of my price range, I enjoyed seeing how the other half lives. Women were picking up $2500 sweaters and draping them over their arms like I do at a thrift store. Since I have caviar taste on a ramen noodle budget, I hit the clearance racks! With 66% off most of the fall merchandise, we were able to make out pretty well for not much money. We scored great deals from brands like Rag & Bone, Vince Camuto, and Free People. In fact, Halls boasts an impressive array of designers.
I coveted this Rachel Zoe vest, but decided at the last minute it wasn't in my budget.
But the best part was the atmosphere. Beautiful decorations, lights everywhere, and the LIVE Christmas music being played while we shopped was amazing. The store wasn't crowded, and the salespeople were very friendly and helpful with outfit pairings and service. While I've been to New York and Vegas, I usually avoid the high end stores, and just window shop. I know I will be disappointed by the price tags, plus I have visions of the scene from "Pretty Woman" where Julia Roberts is snubbed by the salesgirls. I usually covet the Versace and Dior from the safety of my living room sofa, and try to duplicate what I see with bargains from TJ Maxx, Target, and local vintage stores.
I felt very comfortable at Halls, and I would very much recommend a visit when you go to KC. If you want that big-city department store experience, Halls delivers with Midwestern friendliness and charm.
I can't wait to go back! It was a wonderful afternoon of shopping and female bonding with my family.
All photos courtesy of blog.halls.com
