The week in shopping
I saw my dear friend AG over the weekend (she lives in Virginia now), and she had the cutest Lauren Merkin clutch. I'm tempted to hit this sale to see if I can find a similar one--clutches are now $90, totes are now $240, and studded bags are $110. But the compliments you'll get are priceless. 3/14-3/16; 11-7; 231 W. 29th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 201.

Echo of the Dreamer's pretty boho-chic semiprecious jewelry is up to 85% off. 3/15-3/18; 9-7, 11-4 Sat.; 242 W. 30th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 14th fl.

One day, I will own Pratesi sheets; if you're there financially, score their famous linens for up to 75% off. Through 3/14; 9-6:30; Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), 4th fl.

The J. Rosen showroom has swimwear, coverups, accessories, and other beachy stuff from Vix, Lisa Curran, Havianas, and more for 40%-60% off. Cash only. Through 3/17; 8-7:30; 250 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 510.

Score very current blouses, pants, sweaters and more for 50%-70% off at the Alice + Olivia showroom. 3/16-3/18; 9-6, 11-3 Sat.; 80 W. 40th St. (at 6th Ave.), 2nd fl.

When MW and I went to ABC last weekend, we decided to look around the whole store and pretend we were rich. Strangely enough, we didn't have to pretend in the Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams showroom, where prices are actually quite reasonable. For the next month, they're offering 20% off all custom orders. 3/15-4/15; 10-8 weekdays, 10-7 Sat., 11-6:30 Sun.; ABC Carpet & Home, 888 Broadway (at 19th St.).

Or, if you're actually loaded, you can just head right over to DDC, where their furniture is now 20%-70% off. 3/18-3/26; 9:30-6 weekdays, 11-6 Sat., closed Sun.; 181 Madison Ave. (at 34th St.).

I recently came to the conclusion that, for the time being, the most appealing thing about getting married would be getting a sparkly ring and wearing couture. And for the former, I think vintage is the way to go, especially considering the harshness of the diamond trade nowadays. Coincidentally, Stardust Antiques has vintage costume and estate jewelry starting at a mere $50. And no, MW, this is not a hint. I'm just saying. 3/13-4/1; noon-7 weekdays, noon-6 Sat., closed Sun.; 38 Gramercy Park (at 21st St.).

The Mella sale is usually a zoo, but their pricey flip-flops are up to 80% off. 3/16-3/17; 11-7; 25 W. 36th St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 6th fl.

Score semiprecious Nancy Cohen jewelry for up to 75% off. 3/16; 11-7; W New York, 541 Lexington Ave. (48th & 49th Sts.), Waterfall Room, 2nd fl.

For the Barneys cardholders out there, earn double Free Stuff points through 3/19. So, hey, time to splurge on that Balenciaga bag!