Secrets of the sample sale scene

I was reading through my online news stories today and happened upon a Forbes article on samples sales. Now this is a brilliant topic we should definitely touch on. In the world of samples sales --which we’ll delve into more in a bit -- it’s known that unless you live in New York City, LA, London etc., you’re not going to reap the benefits. That’s because most sample sales take place on location at the label’s headquarters (in a closet or room designated for said product) during a limited time frame. They aren’t usually advertised but then again, they’re not hard to find out about either.

Sample sales usually occur twice a year (fall and spring) according the season. For instance, in spring you’ll buy last season’s fall or cruise, and in the fall you’ll buy the previous spring. According to this Forbes article, these samples, showroom and warehouse sales generally offer up to 80% off the original price. That means a Prada handbag that’s originally $900, is selling for around $180. Amazing when you realize that styles don’t alter from season to season as drastically as they used to.

I’ve been to a few in NYC and London. When I worked as an intern for Joseph Abboud I was able to attend a fall event, and although it was my first -- so quite exciting -- it was also menswear. Thus, not really an ideal choice. I did buy a ton of stuff for my guy friends -- I mean how could I not when the shirts were around $10 (down from $150) and the ties about $5 (down from $80.) Besides the price vs. quality appeal though, I believe women’s sales are definitely much better.

My favorite sample sale to date was in Notting Hill. My schoolmate and I heard about it through and editor with Dutch Elle and managed to get there before the masses. They had all the indie labels like West Village and Gharani Strok and even some major ones like Temperley. I found a dress and a clutch and a newfound passion for this type of shopping.

In the above-mentioned Forbes article they touched on a variety of ways to be in-the-know. One of which was the Billion Dollar Babes membership newsletter that comes out every month or two. The email focuses on sales in certain cities like LA, NYC, Chicago, Dallas, San Francisco, London and Dublin. They offer services that require a fee, but I signed up a while back and still get the email notices for free. Definitely check it out if you live near or in any of the cities mentioned.

Not all sample sales are open to the public but large ones are easily accessible if you’re on the right boards or join the right newsletters. Dailycandy.com will promote them, as well as styleforum.com (a board for all male style enthusiasts.) Check them out from time-to-time and see what’s going on. If you’re planning a trip to one of the bigger cities, think about the sales. A girl’s weekend would be that much better if you managed to book it the same weekend as, say a Gucci sample sale.