I don't know how it works at other schools, but I consider PTA meetings a "Shoe and Handbag Fashion Show." In my book, there's no place better to spot some great shoes or bags. You'll be sitting around in a "cafegymatorium" or touring classrooms for at least an hour with a bunch of other moms. At the end of a long day of work (whether you're in an office or other workplace or at home all day, you've been working), you're going to go out among lots of other parents. Believe me, this is the time when you accessorize to impress. I've been known to spend more time considering my shoe and bag choice than whatever other clothing I'm wearing to PTA night. Accessories definitely make the outfit. Cute shoes and a great bag go a long way in making you feel stylish and confident. If the shoes have heels, and you're "height-challenged" like me, they also make you feel tall. That never hurts, either!

Walking around a store is a nice place to get ideas for shoes and bags, but how many times have you brought a handbag home only to find out that the straps keep slipping off your shoulder, or it's too small for your wallet? Walking around in a group of other parents can give you ideas for what really works.

Keep in mind that there will be plenty of social time during which you can compliment another mom's shoes or handbag. You might be able to parlay that compliment into a hint on a great source for such accessories. But if the mom wants to keep mum on where she got her great shoes, you can always resort to my secret weapon--the webshops listed here! Besides, these places offer great deals. Why pay retail?

COUPON TIME

Ultimate Coupons Exclusive! 5% off online orders at Payless ShoeSource
Use coupon code ULTIMATECOUPONS5.
Valid through: December 31, 2008
Cannot be combined with any other coupon or special discount, excluding BOGO. Offer excludes gift cards.

Half-Yearly Sale for Women & Kids at Nordstrom.com
Save 40% or more on a great selection of apparel, shoes, handbags & accessories!
Sale ends: November 16, 2008 11:59pm PT

15% off your order at Shoes.com
Excludes Bags
In your shopping cart enter promo code shoes210.
Valid through: November 30, 2008 11:59pm CT

Free Scarf & Hat set with your order at The Walking Company
Valid through: unknown

Your order is eligible if:
* you buy 2 pairs of shoes OR
* you spend $150 or more.
UGG excluded.

20% off online orders at FamousFootwear.com
Valid online only. In your shopping cart or during checkout click the link to apply a coupon or promotion code. Then enter code 0808299.
Valid through: Unknown
Not valid with other coupons.

$25 off $125 orders of select Shoes at Endless.com
Including Nine West, Steve Madden, adidas, New Balance, Clarks, Naturalizer, and more
Use this link to activate coupon and view eligible items.
Valid through: November 25, 2008

$25 off $125 orders of select Handbags at Endless.com
Use this link to activate coupon and view eligible items.
Valid through: November 25, 2008