Looking through child photographer Dennis O’Brien’s portfolio, one is immediately aware that he isn’t producing conventional studio shots. Each black-and-white portrait is a tight close-up that captures an expression unique to the subject. For the rest of the summer, his sitting costs $325 (was $375). Photographs of additional children are $175 each. O’Brien Pictures, 135 W. 20th St., sixth floor (366-1828); checks accepted; call for appointment; 7/20-9/15.
Olive What She’s Having
Olive & Bette’s – the store on the West Side that had the sharp idea of putting clothes by designers like Vivienne Tam, Daryl K., Theory, Diane Von Furstenberg, and its own line into a catalogue so fashionistas across the country could keep up with Big Apple hipsters – is having a huge warehouse sale. For example: Cynthia Rowley dresses, were $218, now $98; Daryl K. striped cotton shirts, were $120, now $54; Inca bags, were $55, now $24. Olive & Bette’s, 155 W. 72nd St. (712-9761); A.E., M.C., V.; Thurs. 8-8; 7/30.
The Sleep of Kings
We know that $2,999 for a nine-piece set of bed linens is extravagant. But when the original price is $5,575 – well, that is a sale. And Léron’s linens and lingerie are this expensive for a reason: Each item is handcrafted to a level usually reserved for couture (with details like hand embroidery and the finest of fabrics). King-size textured-Italian-silk blanket cover with two matching French cases and two boudoir cases, were $4,900, now $1,950; white organdy tablecloth with floral patterns and a dozen matching napkins, were $2,295, now $1,499. Léron, 750 Madison Ave., at 65th St. (753-6700); A.E., M.C., V.; Mon-Fri. 10-6, Sat 10:30-5; 8/3-8/29.
Squashed Prices
Pumpkin – the rocker turned maternitywear designer – is having a sale on her cool pants, skirts, dresses, T-shirts, shorts, and button-downs; retail $60-80, they’re now $30-$40. Pumpkin Maternity, 67 E. 3rd St. (674-7476); A.E., M.C., V.; Sat. 10-5, Sun. 12-5; 8/1-8/2.
Resale Value
The recent expansion of designer resale included the creation of two new stores – for men and children – as well as even more offerings on the store’s womenswear. Prices here are well below retail to begin with, but the sale makes them even lower; for example: Dolce & Gabbana never-worn pantsuit, was $750, now $325; Evenflo stroller, was $155, now $46.50; Versace men’s suit, was $250, now $75. Designer Resale, 324 E. 81st St. (734-3639); Gentlemen’s Resale, 322 E. 81st St. (734-2739); Children’s Resale, 303 E. 81st St. (734-8897) A.E., M.C., V.; call stores for hours; through 8/8.
Seasons Greetings
To lure guests to its newly completed luxe rooms and suites, the Four Seasons Hotel in Washington D.C. is offering a second night free if you pay for at least one in its Premier suites. Rates for suites start at $750. Call 202-342-0444 and mention the New York Magazine Getaway when making reservations; 8/1-8/31.
Petit Points
Robin’s Nest – the cute-as-a-button children’s-clothing store – is having a summer blowout sale. T-shirts, pants, shorts, bathing suits, dresses, jackets, sweaters, and leggings (sizes 3 months to 10 years) by designers like Jean Bourget, Petit Boy, Catimini, Chevignon, Les Touts Petits, and others will all be 50 to 60 percent off. Both the store’s locations will also offer 10 percent off layettes booked that week and on purchases of fall merchandise totaling $200 or more. Robin’s Nest: The Boutique for Children, 1168 Lexington Ave., at 80th St. (737-2004); 1356 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn (516-484-2366) A.E., M.C., V.; Mon-Fri. 11-6; 7/27 until supplies run out.
Material Concerns
For fabrics and furniture, and made-to-measure drapes, shades, headboards, and the like, check out Richard’s Interior Design. Custom balloon and Roman shades, were $18-$20 a square foot, now $12; custom furniture will be 40 percent off retail; floor samples will be up to 60 percent off; in-stock damasks, brocades, tapestries, silks, and linens, among other fabrics, will be 50 percent off. (Sale prices exclude fabric and installation.) Richard’s Interior Design, 1390 Lexington Ave., near 91st St. (831-9000); A.E., M.C., V.; Mon-Fri. 10-6, Thurs. till 7, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 11-5; 7/27-9/8.