DEAL OR NO DEAL
How to Shop Sample Sales Like an Editor
Whichever city live in, one of the perks of being an urban dweller is access to great designer sample sales, becauase as the seasons change, big companies are looking to clear out their inventory. But if you don’t know what to look for, these sales can be overwhelming, not to mention fruitless. Here, some tips to getting the most bang for your buck from my years of navigating the New York sample sale scene, whether you’re headed to an invite-only studio sale or an organized warehouse extravaganza!
Do Your Research! This might sound obvious, but it’s amazing how helpful it is to take the time to do some research beforehand to see the kinds of products that you can expect at the sale, what the usual retail prices are, and familiarize yourself with the designer or company’s last few collections. If the sale happens annually or bi-annually, some stealthy online research might clarify the typical merchandise mix and discount levels, so that you can decide if it’s even worth your time.
Timing is Everything! Certain designer sales are so popular that it’s worth arriving a little early to line up before the doors open! Once the space reaches capacity, lines typically move at a snail’s pace…which none of us have time for! For sales lasting several days, there is usually a large amount of merchandise to be moved and visiting on the last day might reveal exceptional discounts as further markdowns are taken on the remaining items.
Sample or Stock? Confusingly, there are often two types of product sold at fashion sample sales—true samples (created during the production and design process and often used for PR and sales purposes) and excess inventory. Be aware that real samples typically are only made in model-sizes and might exhibit signs of wear-and-tear or be slightly unfinished, but oftentimes offer the best value as a result. Besides, there’s nothing better than the idea of owning the original design of something—especially if the style was never produced for sale.
Consider a DIY. Because of the serendipitous nature of sample sales, you might fall in love with an item that’s less-than-perfect. If it’s something that could be easily fixed by your local tailor, such as a faulty zipper or make-up stains, don’t automatically dismiss the purchase. We’ve found $20 Prada purses and $25 Band of Outsiders cashmere sweaters in the damage bins that were easily remedied with a little TLC and fashion know-how.
Buy What You Love. Finally, remember that it’s not a bargain if you never wear it. Resist the temptation to buy something just because it’s been marked down—consider whether you like the item enough to have purchased it at full-price!
