Chillin’ out at the mall, sort of
I think global warming has struck my shopping experience. I was in St. Clair Square in Fairview Heights on Tuesday and let’s just say that it wasn’t close to chilly.
I know I should praise the powers that be who are conserving energy, but yeesh it was warm in there.
And, it wasn’t just the mall corridors; the stores were warm, too, and I felt for the employees. Maybe the infrastructure is so old (built in 1974) that it can’t keep up ...
Let’s face it, if retailers want me to spend money, I want to do it in comfort! (OK, another example of a First-World problem.)
Back to school
As I wrote last week, we’re entering that in between segment of summer, when retailers are pushing us away from warm-weather gear and pulling us toward fall and back-to-school supplies.
At JC Penney at the mall, you’ll find a section of the store on the lower level stocked with college and team goods. For example, a really nice Illini fleece throw ($30) will keep a drafty dorm occupant cozy or let a proud parent tout his collegiate team.
Try Old Time Pottery in Fairview Heights for extra-long twin sheet sets for dorm beds. I can’t speak to the quality of these microfiber sets (two for $19.99), but as we know, most teens don’t care. The same-size reversible comforters are $17.99.
Macy’s is having what it calls its first Black Friday in July sale through Sunday, online and in stores. Get 60 percent off all Nautica school uniform pieces, from khaki pants to polos for boys and girls with sale prices about $10 to $15.
A crafty idea
So Michaels Crafts in Shiloh is now offering a Michaels Rewards card/program. Get exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox, members-only events, such as special shopping hours, receipt-free returns (a big plus) and early alerts on sales. Sign up at the checkout, on Michaels app or at michaels.com/rewards.
The first big dress to impress
Guys, if you need shirts as you start that first job, stop into Express at the mall. Through Sunday, buy one dress shirt at the regular price and get one for $29.90.
Pass the car smell test
While I’m not a huge candle fan, I do like Yankee Candles goods for the vehicle. Now through July 31, buy any two Car Jar Ultimates, Smart Scent Vent Clips or Vent Sticks (reg. $5.49 each) and get one free. You’ll find other bargains at the mall Yankee Candle store, too.
This story was originally published July 14, 2016 at 9:40 AM with the headline "Chillin’ out at the mall, sort of."