beauty addict

...

An insider's guide for getting the best of what’s in store.

Labels for Less
At sample sales across the country, savvy shoppers are snagging high-end couture on the cheap.
By Kathleen O’Leary

One of the best ways to find amazing deals on designer duds is to attend a sample sale. Indeed, what began in the ’80s as a way for designers to unload their leftover prototypes has become something of a cultural phenomenon, with many in-the-know women now planning their seasonal shopping around these events. “I buy almost all my clothes at sample sales,” says DailyCandy.com editor-at-large Dannielle Romano, who urges shoppers not to feel guilty about stocking up. According to Amanda Doll, a personal shopper and stylist with Manhattan’s Girlshop (Girlshop.com): “At a sample sale, you’re getting the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind pieces, often at below-wholesale prices. This isn’t usually the case in standard retail shopping.”

The Sales Scoop
How to snag some of this deeply discounted merchandise for yourself? The first step is to locate sales in your area. In New York City and Los Angeles, you can find sample sales by simply pointing your browser to TopButton.com, a comprehensive database of all sales open to the public. You can also sign up for the site’s complimentary email service, which delivers the latest sales alerts straight to your inbox. In addition, check out Nysale.com, BargainsLA.com, and Budgetfashionista.com, all of which have up-to-date listings and related information. In smaller cities, Doll advises, “keep up with your local newspaper, and sign up for newsletters at your favorite boutiques.” And if you don’t live in a bustling metropolis, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the deals. DailyCandy.com’s Everywhere edition provides links to online sample sales, making it an excellent resource for shoppers nationwide.

In all cases, try to get as much advance information as possible. Bear in mind that sales are usually held in season (meaning that if it’s June, you’ll probably find lightweight summer dresses, not warm winter coats), and although some sales accept credit cards, cash is generally the preferred method of payment. Pay special attention to the names of designers whose clothing or accessories have worked for you in the past, as well as the sizes being offered. In general, sample sales tend to offer limited, smaller sizes (from 2 to 8), but there are a growing number of events that cater to sizes 10 and above.

Getting the Goods
Once you’re in the sample-sale know, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Dress for success: When suiting up for your excursion, remember that most venues don’t boast a changing room. “I always wear a camisole and jersey dress to sample sales,” Doll says. “This makes it easy to try on items without being immodest.” Romano believes that your best bet is to “lose all sense of modesty,” but you can also play it safe by donning a leotard, leggings, and a black tank top. Both experts suggest wearing a pair of shoes that are easy to slip on and off, such as ballet flats.

Plan ahead: Think strategically when deciding when to shop. Since most consumers storm the sales on their lunch hours or after work, Doll recommends avoiding these times. That way, “you’ll get the space you need and maybe even snag that one-of-a-kind piece that’s hiding in the racks,” she says. Although the selection is undeniably larger toward the beginning of a sale, don’t be discouraged if you arrive late in the game: “There are great markdowns toward the end, and most retailers restock during the sale,” Doll explains.

Bring a friend: In addition to being a source of great merchandise, sample sales have begun to take on a social aspect. New York City’s Cocktails and Sample Sales, for example, is a wildly successful series of events that combines the thrill of the shopping hunt with a casual party environment that’s a far cry from the cutthroat antics seen at Barney’s notorious Warehouse Sale. And even if the sale you’re attending isn’t socially oriented, by bringing a friend, you can make the experience more enjoyable and get honest feedback on which pieces work for you and which don’t. Plus, two pairs of eyes are always better than one: While you’re scouring one rack, your friend just might stumble upon a piece that’s perfect for you in another.

Shop smart: As tempting as it is, resist the urge to buy something just because it’s a deal. “Make sure the item is not only a great price, but also a great piece,” says Doll. “If you wouldn’t consider buying it at full price, then you probably won’t consider wearing it in the future.” Romano concurs, adding that people often concoct far-fetched scenarios in which they might wear a certain item, when they should be focusing on how the piece will fit into their current wardrobe. Although it’s important to shop with an open mind, if you find yourself saying, “If I’m invited to a full-moon picnic in Provence on the Fourth of July...” it’s time to step away from the rack.

Buyer beware: Along these lines, there are a few other traps to avoid while perusing the racks. One of the worst, according to Romano, is thinking that you can have the item tailored. In most cases, if something doesn’t fit you as is, you should leave it behind. It’s also important to examine sample-sale merchandise carefully for flaws, as the pieces are generally nonreturnable. Additionally, “you may find yourself wanting something just because someone else wants it,” Romano says. “But don’t succumb to the psychological pressure.” As always, make sure you’re buying for the right reasons.

Photo credit: Bruce Livingstone

Home | Site Map | About Us | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service