SAMPLE SALE ALERT: ORANGE

Botkier Sample Sale

Ah, Botkier, how we love thee. Prepare to unearth the ultimate Memorial Day Weekend accessory at the Botkier Sample Sale. Within Chelsea Market’s exclusive Prive sale space, Botkier will line up their amazing bags decorated with hip designs and feel-good pastels for 60% off. Get there early on Tuesday as last year the line wrapped around the block, and by the time I was through, the best of the sale was through as well.

Diesel Sample Sale

Rebels unite: It’s time for the Diesel Sample Sale. A plethora of uniquely structured and colorful edgy wear will be on hand beginning Tuesday at 220 West 19^th Street on the Fifth Floor. Past sales featured tee shirts for as low as $15, bathing suits for $15, denim for $45 and accessories for only $5.

Tibi Sample Sale

Who doesn’t love Tibi? You’d be hard pressed to find a Stylish City reader who doesn’t. The Tibi Sample Sale is noted for their amazing selection of both true sample and stock, and come Tuesday, both will be available at Midtown’s Hartford Studio for up to 70% off. Last year, stock ranged from $200 for long dresses, $125 for day dresses, and $75 for pretty tops, while samples ran $50 for pants, $40 for skirts, and $100 for day dresses.

Tracy Reese Sample Sale

Another great sale to look forward to this week is the Tracy Reese Sample Sale. After your Tuesday sample sale binge, enjoy a calm Wednesday sorting through stock and true samples in Midtown for up to 65% colorful patterns on silk dresses ($150), drop-waist frocks ($150), and samples starting at $50. Last year’s sale excited shoppers with Plenty by Tracy Reese dresses for $35 as well as summery dresses for $170.

Last Minute Stops

Still need to find and outfit for your new Botkier, or a cashmere cardigan to drape around your gorgeous Tracy Reese dress? Then look no further than the Christian Siriano Sample Sale for 70% off designer dresses for a purse pair up, the Hunter Dixon & Zinke Swimwear Sample Sale for their Mem Day Blowout, and last but not least, the Jennifer Tyler Sample Sale for an oh-so-soft lightweight cashmere cardigan to keep you warm during those chilly nights on the beach.

Thank goodness for a low-key shopping Friday so we can get our rest in before those margaritas in the sun over the weekend!

By Caitlin Colford

SAMPLE SALE ALERT: ORANGE

Christian Louboutin Invite-Only Sample Sale

If you’re among the fabulous lucky shoppers out there, then you have already scored your invitation to the Christian Louboutin Sample Sale. For the rest of us, put on your thinking caps in order to determine your way “in” to the Christian Louboutin bi-annual Sample Sale where heels are marked for as low as $200. C’mon, it’s New York, everyone knows everyone – who can get you in? If you have come out with no ideas, then give waiting in line a whirl – rumor is security decreases over time during the sale.

Theory Throwdown

This week not only brings us one Theory Sample Sale, but two. That’s right, a double dose of sleek and sexy blazers and cute prep ware. Tuesday kicks off the throw down with Theory & Theyskens’ Theory Sample Sale at the Chelsea Market. Past years’ sales graced us with $69 shorts, $89 skirts and leather for only $249. If that’s not enough for you, swing on over to Clothingline’s Theory Sample Sale come Wednesday for discounted stock merchandise. During the tail end November’s Theory Sample Sale, an additional 30% was taken off price tags.

GANT Sample Sale

If you want to drip with style, then head to the GANT Sample Sale to stock up on clothing and accessories for 80% off retail prices. Expect to find $50 sweaters and cotton blazers for $195. Past sales have featured Gant, Gant Rugger and Gant by Michael Bastian.

The News Sample Sale

The funky News Sample Sale is back beginning Thursday at 495 Broadway. This sale always features steals and deals for the downtown fashionista. Check out the 5^th floor for rock bottom prices on Anniel shoes (a perfect summer bootie), a slew of Cheap Monday jeans (did I mention cheap?), Clu and Highland.

The Limited Sample Sale

The Limited may just be your average, run of the mill suburban mall staple, but let’s not forget that during their Sample Sale on Thursday, items are priced at $5 a piece. That’s just twenty quarters for your next favorite blouse and stylish bottoms. There’s literally no going wrong here, even if you only where your purchase once. This sale is cash only, but that shouldn’t be a problem. Do you think they accept quarters?

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

By Caitlin Colford

SAMPLE SALE ALERT: ORANGE

Furla Sample Sale

Let the designer shopping begin! Cinco de Mayo not only brings us an onset of tequila, but also a sample sale from Furla at midtown’s Clothingline. At the sale, expect to find everything from Furla’s clutches, totes and handbags to their wallets and small accessories. At past sales, shoppers purchased Furla’s gorgeous Italian handbags for around $395. While you’re browsing for Furla goods, check out the Ali Ro & Donna Morgan discounts that will also be offered during the sale.

Rebecca Minkoff Sample Sale

Rebecca kicks the workweek Mink-off with her annual sample sale where 75% will be discounted from ready-to-wear, handbags, footwear and accessories. Hop to 260 Fifth Ave anytime before Saturday to grab yourself a Rebecca Minkoff crossbody bag for $250 and sequin tanks for $60. Last year, shoppers spotted dresses for as low as $95, trenches for $200 and Minkoff’s gorgeous morning after bag for $300.

Jimmy Choo Sample Sale

Choo choo! Here comes the Jimmy train. Needless to say, we’ll welcome the two-day Jimmy Choo Sample Sale with open arms and flock to browse deep discounts on shoes, handbags, clutches, and other accessories. Last year, Choo’s gorgeous designer shoes were $225 and, if you’re not picky, damaged shoes were $75. Take an early lunch on Tuesday, and make sure you’re among the first in line for their noon opening.

Jonathan Adler Furniture Warehouse Sale

Spring just screams redecorate, doesn’t it? And where better to start than the Jonathan Adler Furniture & Home Accessories Warehouse Sale? Starting Thursday, the home designer’s modern furnishings will be on display at the Jonathan Adler Warehouse in Bushwick. Expect to find his eye popping Whitaker Ottoman for $565 (down from $1,125) and his gorgeous and original Meurice Chandelier for $375 (from $750).

Weekly Wrap Up

Don’t think your shopping agenda stops here. Take some time to pop in on the sales you’ve missed, namely those that have multiple brands to offer such as the Christofle, Judith Leiber, and Di Modolo Jewelry & Accessories Sample Sale for up to 75% off, the Dsquared2, Maison Martin Margiela, Viktor&Rolf, MM6 & more Sample Sale where StaffUSA will curate a straight off the runway sale, and the always affordable and decent Butter, Bettye Muller & Something Bleu Footwear Sample Sale where sample shoes are $60 with plenty of room to try on however many pairs you please. Lastly, don’t wait until the last minute, get a jump start on mother’s day shopping at the Bitta Design Group Fine Jewelry Sample Sale for up to 70-75% off fine jewelry and watches taking place in the lovely Waldorf Astoria Hotel

Between the Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo, this weekend is the year’s best time for the wildest statement hats. So what will it be: a large brimmed white hat with a polka dot bow and a few feathers, or a multi-color sombrero? Both? Ok, I agree.

By Caitlin Colford

SAMPLE SALE ALERT: ORANGE

Under Armour Sample Sale

May also brings us a round of races for the sports inclined. From 5K’s to half-marathons the wind-less days in May are pitch perfect for a nice run. Under Armor, a favorite among work-out-aholics, is hosting a sample sale beginning Tuesday at 260 Fifth Avenue where they’ll offer high performance gear for a minimum. Last year, lucky shoppers scored short sleeve tops for $15, shorts for $18 and capris for $25.

Thakoon Sample Sale

The edgy brand, Thakoon, plays host to a sample sale come Tuesday within their well organized and sunny SoHo showroom. The Thakoon Sample Sale typically draws in large crowds of downtown fashionistas, so be sure to arrive early to assure you get your hands on the best of the sale. Shoppers last year scored silk dresses and tops for between $125-$175, dresses for between $200-$290 and graphic tees for $25. Please note that this is a true sample sale, typically with heaps of samples in sizes 2,4.

AEFFE USA Sample Sale

AEFFE USA, home to popular designers such as Alberta Ferretti, Moschino Fuzzi, Jean Paul Gaultier, Cedric Charlier, Pollini and Cacharel, will launch is notoriously excellent sample sale on Wednesday. Shoppers reportedly have been overwhelmed at past sales due to the vast selection. However, prices are typically high, with pieces starting at $200 and landing around $2,000. Needless to say, this sale is reserved for those with deep pockets.

Elizabeth and James Sample Sale

Stroll down to Spring Street on Thursday for the Elizabeth and James two-day sample sale. From their popular ready to wear to their fabulous sunglasses, the Elizabeth and James Sample Sale is almost a guaranteed hit given their amazing designs. Last year the small sale was an A+ for shoppers, with Elizabeth and James jeans for $50, T’s for $30, and jackets for $100.

Fashionhaus Sample Sale

Get ready to score big at the Fashionhaus Sample Sale. The midtown space will place deep discounts on a number of brands including Roseanna (items $125-$495), By Marlene Birger (items $45-$395), Harvey Faircloth (items $75-$300) M. Patmos (items $95-$695), Rene Lezard (items $95-$895) and more.

Enjoy the shopping and sunny weather fellow fashionistas and don’t forget to report back!

By Caitlin Colford

Although shopping seems insignificant after the week we just endured, but sometimes it can be therapeutic and a much needed mental break. After a wild line up of sample sales this past week, we recover with the hair of the dog. This week, a packed line up continues, with sales from Jennifer Tyler, Pixie Market, Scoop, Scotch & Soda and the incomparable Vivienne Westwood.

SAMPLE SALE ALERT: Orange

Scoop Spring Closet Clean-Up Sale

Scoop’s annual Spring Closet Clean-Up Sale is underway on Monday, where we’ll see prices as low as $19 for top designer brands. During this popular Meatpacking District sale tank tops will be on hand for $19, pants for $49, shirts and jeans for $59, and sweaters for $69. There have been many great finds at past sales of this caliber, including markdowns on everything from Rag & Bone DVF to Helmet Lang and Phillip Lim. Be on the look out for deeper discounts throughout the duration of the sale. In the past, price slashes reached 85% off retail!

Scotch & Soda Sample Sale

Beginning Tuesday, get your downtown cool on at the Scotch & Soda and Maison Scotch Sample Sale. Featured within 260 Fifth, this edgy sale will offer up to 70% off fall and summer samples from both collections. Featured items included army jackets for $100, and sleeveless embroidered shirts for $40. The European streetwear brand has been a favorite amongst young New Yorkers, so expect a cool crowd to stock up on the highlights on the sale – in other words: Get there early!

Vivenne Westwood Spring/Summer Private Sale

Miss Westwood returns with her high fashion rock star glam during the Vivienne Westwood Spring/Summer Private Sale. The 5-day long sale will kick off on Wednesday, April 24^th at 10am. Be prepared to wait in line for up to 60% off clothing, handbags, shoes, and accessories from Westwood’s spring and summer collections. In 2012 the sale brought 50% off retail prices, causing for draped dresses for as low as $140 and peep toe shoes for $115.

Jennifer Tyler Cashmere Sample Sale

As I’m sure you are well aware, here at The Stylish City we live for cashmere, which is why we urge you to check out the Jennifer Tyler Cashmere Clothing & Accessories Sample Sale come Wednesday. The NYC based designer will offer her spring knitwear collection up to 80% off, for you to snuggle in during those chilly summer nights. Keep your eyes peeled for split cable cashmere tunics for $99 and cashmere cardigans, which have been spotted at past sales for $95.

Pixie Market Sample Sale

Who doesn’t love the Pixie Market Sample Sale? The uber cheap shopping experience is never a disappointment. How could it be when every sing item is priced either at $20, $30, or $40? Expect to find brands such as Jeffrey Campbell, Stolen Girlfriends Club and Something Else. At past sales, summery blouses were marked at $20, while dresses were $40 (compared to an original $319 price tag) and cute skirts and shirts were spotted within the $10 bin.

What Did You Miss?

Since you were so preoccupied with this week’s fantastic sale line up, you may have missed out on a few deals. Utilize those down days in between sales this week to check out discounted cashmere at the Arman Diradourian Sample Sale, 85% off downtown fashion favorites such as Alexander Wang, Phillip Lim and Rag & Bone during the Otte Sample Sale, and 70% off designer handbags at the Deux Lux Spring 2013 Sample Sales, where you’ll find the brands signature hobos, clutches, and wallets for a steal.

Boston Strong!

By Caitlin Colford

TUESDAY: James Perse Sample Sale

On Tuesday, James Perse brings us up to 90% off his minimalist style and luxurious coziness during his sample sale on 260 Fifth Ave. During past sales, the casual brand offered tanks for $10, tees for $15, dresses for $25, and jackets for $50. The best part about this sale is their consistent restocking, so don’t fret if you’re not among the first in line!

TUESDAY: Jil Sander Sample Sale

SoHo plays host to the Jil Sander Sample Sale, where 80-85% will be deducted from ready-to-wear, footwear, handbags and accessories. This contemporary yet stylish brand is perfect for workingwomen who want to add a bit of luxurious edge to their monotonous days. Past sales have featured popular designs for around $300 on average.

TUESDAY: Lauren Merkin Sample Sale

Lauren Merkin’s fabulous clutches will be on sale for around $100 during Tuesday’s sample sale. Apart from gunmetal looks for $125 and pearlized styles for $95, there will be a $20 bargain bin chock full of Merkin’s gorgeous accessories. Get ready to sort through those bad boys! Last year’s Lauren Merkin Sample Sale offered perforated-leather clutches for $125 (orig. $275) and calfskin satchels for $250 (orig. $525).

WEDNESDAY: Vivienne Tam Sample Sale

Vivienne Tam’s high quality and distinct clothing will be priced between $20-$300 during her sample sale on 39^th Street. Her clean lines and interesting designs are certain to draw attention this spring. During past sales, archival samples were available for as low as $30.

THURSDAY: White + Warren Sample Sale

Luxuriously soft, abundant comfort and casually cool are the words that come to mind when thinking about the White + Warren Sample Sale. Thursday marks the start of the sale in Midtown, with cashmere sweaters for as low as $100, tees for $30 and samples for as low as $15. Last year, the sale drew in fair crowds who sorted through numerous cashmere sweaters that were marked for $40, which were restocked as the sale went on.

FRIDAY: Last Looks

Utilize your Friday to pay a visit to the sales you’ve neglected throughout the week. Don’t miss out on the True Religion Friends & Family Sale, where 25% will be taken off of their popular jeans, Jill Platner Jewelry Sample Sale for 20% off one of a kind items, Cinzia Rocca Sample Sale for 70% off retail price on spring coats and a buy one get one half off deal, and the Beirn Handbag Sample Sale to score a unique water-snake skin satchel.

Now that you’ve cleaned out your closets, this week leaves you no room for the age-old complaint, “I have nothing to wear!”

By Caitlin Colford

Sample Sale Alert: Orange

Joy Gryson Sample Sale

Joy is brought to our lives on Monday, literally. The Joy Gryson Sample Sale will feature up to 70% off her popular handbags and leather goods from all collections, including Gryson and Olivia Harris by Joy Gryson. The former Marc Jacobs designer, has been making her popular bags since 2006, and is noted for her fun and funky style that adds a splash of originality to any outfit. At the sale, be on the lookout for Gryson’s crossbody bags that will provide ease and flair to your summer wear.

Badgley Mischka Sample Sale

Badgley Mischka’s Spring 2013 Sample Sale is upon us! Beginning Tuesday, and lasting through Sunday, the sale will not only offer Badgley Mischka’s stunning evening wear and ready to wear, but also selections from Mischka’s contemporary line, Mark + James. Badgley Mischka’s stunning and elegant 1940’s inspired dresses will be on sale for 60-80% off retail prices, with Metallic tweed skirts marked at $80, feather cocktail dresses offered for $240, and strapless organza frocks available for $180.

Beyond Vintage Sample Sale

Beginning Tuesday in the Garment District, the Beyond Vintage Sample Sale will offer just that. The brand, which utilizes vintage inspiration when creating their pieces, features flowing hippie-esque tops and silk blouses, with 1920’s-inspired designs, a two-decade back track from the Badgley Mischka Sale. Last season’s Beyond Vintage Sample Sale offered vintage loving shoppers tops for $40, blouses for $60 and $80 dresses. True samples were also on hand for $15.

Tusk Sample Sale

If you didn’t luck out in scoring a new bag at the Joy Gryson Sample Sale, try your luck again come Friday at Tusk’s Sample Sale. Promised discounts include 70% off Italian leather bags and accessories, as well as 15% off regularly priced merchandise. Tusk, who is known for their leather wallets, will put the spotlight on their convenient double zip checkbook clutches (which was one of Oprah’s Favorite Things!) and leather zip wallets ($40).

Elie Tahari Sample Sale

Elie Tahari wraps up the sample sale week with amazing discounts on his popular business attire and women’s designer wear. Everything from wool dress coats ($199-$279), to evening dresses ($129) and leather jackets ($279) will be hung about Elie Tahari’s new sale home at 510 Fifth Avenue. I know it’s no fun to shop for work, but businesswomen unite! Here’s your chance to score top designs for bottom of the barrel prices. Tahari’s blouses will be sold for between $29-$59, in addition to classic skirts ($49-$59), and leather pumps ($99).

Phew! That was a long week of sample sale shopping but it’s good to get our sea legs back. Now that we’re in shape, next week we’ll have our endurance up and be ready to take on a fresh slate of sample sales.

By Caitlin Colford

According to security, each corralled section of shoppers equated an estimated one hour wait. With some simple math, by 12:30PM shoppers at the end of the line faced 5 hours before them. Wow! Lucky for waiting shoppers, they were on the sun soaked side of the street, allowing them to work on their tan as they dreamed of discounted designer shoes. One sunburned shopper in particular had about a two hour wait in front of her and she had been in line since 8:15AM!

Known for being the originator of the stiletto heel, Roger Vivier is noted for his classic designs for some of the world’s most beloved stars, including Ava Gardner and the Beatles. But even so, is that fact worth spending half your day outside?

I was lucky enough to speak to a few shoppers who were among the first in line this morning, before the sun was even up. A gaggle of girls toted at least one bag each, some with two or three, and spoke highly of the sale. They mentioned that there was a great selection of flats for only $250, and all prices were 50% off their retail counterpart. They mentioned further that on average, stilettos were $350, with embellished shoes much higher.

The Roger Vivier Sample Sale is only in its 3rd year, and in the past, stock was slim after the first few days. Given today’s outrageous crowd, stock is not expected to last through the sale’s end on Tuesday.

For those hoping to peek inside the Roger Vivier Sample Sale, your best bet is to wait until midday tomorrow as I’m sure come 9AM when the doors open, shoppers in line from today will still be left over. Is it worth the wait? You tell us! Share your inside scoop within our comments section.

Outrageous crowd at the Roger Vivier Sample Sale

Is it worth the six hour wait?

A great selection of flats for only $250, and all prices 50% off retail

Shoppers among the first in line this morning, spoke highly of the sale

WHEN: 4/5 – 4/9; F (10-7), Sat-Mon (9-6:30), Tues (9-5)

WHERE: Soiffer Haskin
317 West 33rd Street
(Just west of 8th Avenue)
New York
(718) 747-1656, M-F (9-6)

By Caitlin Colford

Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival

Easter and New York City meet for a perfect blend of colorful quirk thanks to the Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival on Sunday. From 10AM until 4PM New Yorkers get a dose of originality as mad hatters sport their favorite bonnets and march the parade route along Fifth Avenue from 49th to 57th Street. To make it even better, many paraders allow their costumed pets to tag along with them.

Rent the Runway Sample Sale

Come Monday you can Rent the Runway during their sample sale at 260 Fifth Avenue. Rent the Runway, the popular online destination for those seeking a one-night-only designer dress, is now offering up their merchandise for keeps during their week-long sale. Last year, by day two of the sale pickings were slim. As we reported, considering these dresses have been worn multiple times, we were disappointed to find so many mascara stains, deodorant marks, and pulls on the designer goods.

Bettye Muller and Linda Richards Sample Sale

Although usually paired with brands Butter and Something Bleu, this time around Bettye Muller teams up with Linda Richards for a Sample Sale on their shoes and accessories. Prices are always remarkably low at these sales at 38^th street, and shoes will by marked for $50 and under this time around. Sandals, skimmers, and flats will be on hand for spring and summer stock up!

The Wrights Collection Sample Sale

Load up on basics, brights, and prints at The Wrights Sample Sale, taking place in the brand’s midtown showroom come Wednesday. Both The Wrights’ Resort and Spring Collections will be on sale for up to 75% off retail prices. From leather jackets to jersey knits, although not a widely known brand, this sale certainly looks promising. Last year, during The Wrights Collection Sample Sale, cute cropped jackets were spotted for $260, while jersey knits were $60 and leather jackets were $300. Also, be sure to not pass up a peak at their true samples on hand.

Etc., Etc.

Beginning Wednesday, Shoshanna is no longer just your favorite Girls character. At the Shoshanna Sample Sale, 75% off is taken of the retail price of the brand’s dresses, swimwear and separates. Also, if you’re in the market for a jewelry pick-me-up, don’t miss out on the Wanderluster Sample Sale where funky and fun jewelry will be sold for up to 60% off retail prices.

Happy Easter!

By Caitlin Colford

Nicole Miller, who is known for her fabric manipulations, and bright prints and patterns, not only offers show stopping dresses, but also stunning casual wear and a gorgeous collection of bridal wear. Her recently launched casual line, Artelier, was available in the truckload throughout the racks, and – if you’re not in the market for a bridal gown – this selection is the sure hit of the sale.

On Monday, RueLaLa launched their very own Nicole Miller sale, offering Miller’s popular dresses, blouses and skirts at a discount. However, these prices pale in comparison to the tags at the Nicole Miller Sample Sale, exhibiting that the physical sale trumps the digital this week.

If you are a bride to be, and missed last week’s round of bridal sample sale shopping, then seriously, make sure you’re at the top of the line at the opening of the Nicole Miller Sample Sale. These designer gowns are $350. Did you hear that? $350 for a designer gown! Dresses are available in sizes 0-16, with the majority of the dresses in size 4. Many of the styles are well stocked and reappear throughout each size section. If you prefer lavish, princess style bridal wear then this sale may not be your fit. But if you’re into the simple yet elegant look, then this is your jam. Nearly all the dresses are 94% silk, 6% spandex (some 96%/4%), and feature an empire, flare, or simple A-line style. Did I mention they’re $350?

As stated earlier, if you are not in the market for bridal-wear than this sale is still worth a visit for the Nicole Miller Artelier pieces on sale. This casual line is a hybrid of uptown and downtown fashion — perfectly edgy while maintaining sophistication. Some of the standouts include Faux Stretch Leather Leggings in a variety of styles ($60), Floral Patterned Black Skinny Jeans ($60), a Black and Gold Military Wool Blazer ($85), Silk Tuxedo Shirt Dress with an Embellished Collar ($80) and an olive green Cupro Jacket ($85).

A wide variety of classic Nicole Miller dresses were lusted after at the sale, including a Blue Rayon Dress ($80), which was skin tight and a sure flattering fit, a silk Mustard Shirt Dress with Embellished Shoulders ($80), as well as a nice variety of printed and solid color skirts, with the majority being short and a few knee-length exceptions ($40).

There were only about five pairs of shoes to be seen ($50 each), including the Peep Toe Ankle Boot and the Pony Vintage Knee Boot. Also, only a small collection of jewelry was on hand, including statement bib necklaces, simple charms, and bright snap bracelets ($40 a piece).

The far back of the room features a large collection of true, one-of-a-kind samples. None of the pieces here caught my eye, but they’re worth a browse to see if you have any luck! Prices run between $30 for tops and $100 for bridal.

As a last note, there is no leather category at this sale therefor any leather pieces you find are categorized within their respective style’s price point (i.e. a leather jacket is only $85).

All in all, the Nicole Miller Sample Sale is a do not miss. So what are you waiting for? Get on over there! Happy Shopping!

Designer gowns are $350!

Bridal Dresses are available in sizes 0-16

Black and Gold Military Wool Blazer ($85)

Mustard Shirt Dress with Embellished Shoulders ($80)

Silk Tuxedo Shirt Dress with an Embellished Collar ($80)

Peep Toe Ankle Boot ($50)

Nicole Miller Sample Sale Price List

WHEN: 3/26 – 3/30; Tue (10-7), W-Th (10-8), F (10-7), Sat (10-5)

WHERE: 260 Fifth Avenue
between 28th and 29th Streets
New York, NY

By Caitlin Colford