Rachel Sutherland

It's hard to say if it was altruism, capitalism or a combo of both that prompted boutique owner Effie Loukas to share her fabulous (and voluminous) wardrobe.

The new Hawk Haven cosmetology lab at West Mecklenburg High is jam-packed with opportunity.

Where you and I might just see an old piece of furniture, Mavis Beard sees bracelets, necklaces and earrings.

The first few times I got e-mail invitations to members-only sample sales, I deleted without opening. Discount designer goods at a fraction of the retail price? For some reason, I was channeling my Internet-skeptic relatives. It sounded a little too good to be true.

Reared from an early age on marathon mall trips with my mom and aunts, I did not anticipate that I would ever tire of the physical act of shopping.

I am still trying to recover from a marathon weekend of fashiony events. But even in my aching-feet-baggy-eyes stupor, I'm cautiously optimistic about the state of philanthropy, creativity and style in the Queen City.

I'm done feeling guilty for reading “chick lit.”

You wanted to go to

It's consignment sale time in Charlotte – a twice-a-year frenzy of gently used children's clothing, toys and accessories.

I'm not sure when a pair of sunglasses perched in my hair became my fashion crutch, but it's time for it to go.