A New Polo

Ralph Lauren has moved into the D.C. area in a big way. The Georgetown shop recently relocated from Wisconsin Ave. to a swanky new spot on M; the Tysons Galleria outpost opened this fall; and the newest of the bunch -- modeled after the New York City flagship in the Rhinelander Mansion on Madison Avenue -- is scheduled to open on Wisconsin Ave. in Chevy Chase this weekend.

While you're admiring the interiors of any one of the posh branches of this luxe brand, peek in on the private sale that starts this Thursday, Nov. 17, and continues through Sunday, Nov. 20. Why it's called a "private" sale is a mystery to me -- it's clearly advertised and available to all, which means you can save up to 40 percent on men's, women's and children's clothing. You also can get a 25 percent break on signature Polo and oxford shirts, as well as cashmere, cable-knit sweaters. Much of the clothing you covet is still very pricey, but the jewelry (dangly earrings with crystals or amethysts, rhinestone bracelets and rope necklaces) has been reduced by more than 40 percent, which makes some items an almost reasonable buy for dress-up attire this holiday season. Discounts also apply on the Polo Web site.

-- Janet