Caitlin Colford

No scarves, no bags, no jewelry, big problem. The Hermes Sample Sale opened to the public today at Soiffer Hasken on 33^rd Street, to a manageable crowd pre-gamming in order to get their fashion fix before tonight’s Fashion’s Night Out.

The Soiffer Hasken showroom is more often than not packed to the brim, with oodles of ready to wear, heels, and bags overflowing into the aisles. Not today, I’m afraid. The Hermes Sample Sale offered nothing more than a few hats, one aisle of shoes, knits, and one aisle of ready to wear. While moseying around the sale, I heard a handful of women ask employees where the scarves were, only to be disappointed by their response. To top that off, despite their advertised “up to 70% off” draw, every item was no more than 50% off the original retail price. Additionally, there is a strict “No Photography” rule in Soiffer Hasken, and is strongly enforced by trolling security. However, I was able to sneakily snap a few shots to provide you with an idea.

If you’re a lover of sky-high heels and booties then the Hermes Sample Sale has just the thing waiting for your tootsies. The same dozen or so styles of shoes were repeated throughout the individual size sections, not giving you many options, but then again quality vs. quantity is indeed important when it comes to our beloved designer shoes. The Camel Velour Bottines ($800, orig. $1,600, pictured) were incredibly smooth and well crafted, as were the Noir Caprice Richelites, a black leather, cross stitched heel with a peep toe ($1,167.50, orig. $2,325), and the Nappa Noir Bridge Bottines, ($725, orig. $1,450).

There was also a mixture of boots on the ground and sandals intermixed. If you have some extra time, try on a pair of the Bricklane Spazziki Boots in Bronze ($800, orig. $1,600) and the Noisette Caraibes Sandal ($425, orig. $850).

A few shelves of knit sweaters and cardigans paralleled the shoe section, offering sizes XS-XL in styles such as the Cashmere Point Fourrure Vest in Ecru ($675, orig. $1,350), and a borderline amazing sweater dress with a boat neck and made with alpaca wool ($525, orig. $1,050). Also, hidden within the pile of chunky sweaters was a beautiful cardigan labeled Droit Maille Jersey de Soie ($1,275, orig. $2,550). Do not turn the corner without taking a peek at the Hermes Knit Leggings with a leather belt, which are offered in black, ivory, and olive ($750, orig. $1,500).

The modest ready to wear aisle held high quality goodies (for those who can afford it), but the same quality vs. quantity theme rang true here. The same few styles were repeated in every size section, with stand-outs that included a Manteau Cashmere Thigh Length Knit ($2,397.50, orig. $4,975), a Sepia Point Cape ($3,000, orig. $6,000), Jersey Feture Flannel Dress Pants ($612.50, orig. $1,225), which also came in a pencil skirt, and a Blouson Tweed Cape Jacket ($2,550, orig. $5,100, pictured).

Those shoppers who weren’t in the market for killer heels or oversized sweaters exited the Hermes Sample Sale empty handed and wildly disappointed. Lasting through Saturday, shoes and apparel within the Hermes Sample Sale will be replenished daily, but only with additional sizes, not styles. For those who do not have a grand to spend on a single item, opt to spend your time today popping in and out of various stores during Fashion’s Night Out. Even if you leave the stores empty handed, at least you’ll get free booze and free fun out of it.

WHEN: 9/6 – 9/8; Th-F (9-7), Sat (9-6)

WHERE: Soiffer Haskin
317 West 33rd Street
(West of 8th Ave);
718-747-1656

By Caitlin Colford

The Barney’s beloved Warehouse Sale opened to the public last Thursday, August 23^rd. Despite launching an online pre-sale in the beginning of August, which seems to be the latest trend amongst sample sales, the Barney’s Warehouse Sale in Chelsea drew its famous crowd of eager shoppers last week. During the sale’s Day Two on Friday, Racked reported that women’s clothing, namely of the contemporary nature, was nearly cleared out aside from the ripped and stained leftovers, in addition to a slim selection of shoes and accessories. This is partially true of today, however, it was clear that after the inevitable hype last week, the Barney’s Warehouse Sale has re-organized, added to the imperfections section, and applied deeper discounts to many items. 

First off, let’s start with a lady’s best friend — shoes! One thing many veteran Barney’s shoppers are not used to seeing at the Warehouse Sale are tidy shelves with designer shoes neatly arranged for proper viewing. Considering much of the overwhelming stock of shoes has depleted, the few pairs that are remaining are vying for attention. Just because they weren’t shoppers’ first choice last week, doesn’t mean there is anything wrong with them. There are plenty of discounted designer shoe options left to please (and perfect for fall!) including, a pair of Lanvin Pointed Leather Ankle Bootie in Size 8 ($438, pictured), Opening Ceremony Brown Leather and Rust Wedges in Size 7 ($149, pictured), a pair of size 6 Satore Ankle Cut Suede Boots in Sand ($419, orig. $1,045, pictured), a rocking pair of Alai Low Cut Black Suede Heels w/ Silver Detail in Size 11 ($1,019, orig. $2,040, pictured), and finally a cute pair of Loeffler Size 6.5 Brown Leather Ankle Boots.

The typically overflowing boxes o’ bags were slight and manageable today. While the selection of bags at the Barney’s Warehouse Sale is never stellar, there are a couple of worthwhile options to check out, namely a cute Tano Nubuck Grey Bag ($179, pictured) and a Theyskens’ Theory Axel Messenger Bag in Pine ($695, pictured).

To match your new fall heels, head to the denim section to get yourself a new pair of jeans. Many of these pants have new markdowns from last week’s sale, ranging from 10%-25% in additional discounts. Colored denim and cords are the hottest fall trend this season. To get ahead of the game you simply must take a peek at the Current Elliot Rustic Suede Pants in Size 29 that scream 1970’s ($330, pictured), a Size 27 pair of James Jeans Randi the Pencil Leg Jeans in Burgundy ($169, pictured), and Rag & Bone Elephant Bell Cords in Whiskey ($69, pictured).

As for the clothing, there were not many worthy options aside from the racks of damaged goods and imperfections. Many tags were marked with today’s date, indicating Barney’s has either brought in new additions today or that many items were damaged in the shopping last week. Among these tattered items was a Yellow and White Stripped Cashmere Sweater by The Row with a small hole on its left shoulder ($389, pictured), a pair of size 28 J Brand Maria Starless Straight Leg Denim Jeans with a ripped belt loop ($109), a stretched out pair of Current Elliot Jeans in Size 24 ($119, perfect for a size up), and last but not least, a gorgeous A.L.C. Black Ruffled Mini Skirt with a broken zipper ($169, pictured).

The contemporary collections were mostly stained and damaged as well, but not nearly as cheap as the above selections. The best of this gloomy bunch was a Phillip Lim Burgundy Sleeveless Button Up in a size 4 and 8 ($199, orig. $395, pictured), a gorgeous Vince Oversized Nude Sweater with laced in silver thread ($149, pictured), NSF Deep Plunging V-Neck Oatmeal Boyfriend Sweater in Size L ($109, pictured), a Phillip Lim (who seems to be the MVP of today’s sale) Short Sleeve Khaki Dress with Tie ($179), Elizabeth and James Mint Green Dress Pants ($159, orig. $285, pictured) and lastly a Crochet and Cherry Band of Outsiders Summer Dress in Size 3 ($199, pictured).

Sadly, the designer dress section was nearly empty. It was hard to find big names or a stunning dresses that were worth the big bucks. I did take note to two dresses that had multiple discounts, landing their price points within a reasonable range given their quality, and those were the Giambattista Valli Black and White Dress ($589, orig. $2,340, pictured) and the Rachas Short Sleeve Black Lace Dress ($909).

It seems that shoppers are not yet in the fall state of mind, so be sure to take advantage of their summer fever and get yourself some cheap a pair of designer denim in cold weather colors and fabulous suede shoes that many overlooked. The dust has been cleared off and items that you may not have taken notice to last week are now in the spotlight at the Barney’s Warehouse Sale, so hurry down to buy yourself a few designer additions for your fall wardrobe!

WHEN: 8/23 – 9/3;
8/23 – 8/24; Th-F (8-9)
8/25 – 8/26; Sat-Sun (9-8)
8/27 – 8/29; M-W (10-9)
8/30 – 8/31; TH-F (9-9)
9/1 – 9/2; Sat-Sun (9-8)
9/3; M (9-7)
9/4; Tue (9-9)

WHERE: 255 West 17th Street
(between 7th and 8th Avenues)
New York, NY 10011
212-450-8400.

By Caitlin Colford

The only good thing about it being the third weekend of August, and that much closer to the end of summer, is that sample sale season is back!! Fairly soon we’ll be breaking out our heavier cardigans and dark wash skinny jeans. We’ll try to pair these with our cheery summer tops, in attempt to attain one last round of wear before packing them up and saying goodbye until next spring. Although we don’t want to face the reality of fall, we’re still preparers by nature and know the best deals and sample sales for fall clothing are just around the corner. So this week we’ll buck up, buy some warm weather threads for next year, and early fall clothing paired with beautiful accessories for the upcoming weeks at the Issey Miyake, Lauren Merkin, Rolando Santana, and Kara Ackerman Sample Sales.

Issey Miyake Sample Sale

Issey Miyake is known for his experimental pleats that result in interesting and one of a kind textures on his blouses, skirts, dresses, and coats. One of the more popular divisions under the Issey Miyake brand is Pleats Please, in addition to Cauliflower and Heat, which will all be on sale Tuesday, August 14th, at the Issey Miyake Sample Sale.

Lauren Merkin Sample Sale

Five words: Bargain boxes starting at $30. Well, six, but doesn’t $30 look good under the moniker Lauren Merkin? Handbags, clutches, and accessories from the talented designer will be on sale for up to 70% off, and as low as $30, at the Lauren Merkin Sample Sale beginning Tuesday on 29th street.

Rolando Santana Private Sale

Even though the brand is three years old, Rolando Santana’s designs are stunning and beautiful. His ready to wear collection, both stock and samples, will be available for up to 50% off come Wednesday, at the Rolando Santana Private Sale in Midtown. RSVP ‘yes’ to [email protected] in order to stay up to date on all of the sale’s details.

Kara Ackerman Jewelry Sample Sale

Decadent designs, both ethereal and timeless, Kara Ackerman’s chandelier earrings, vibrant turquoise rings, and sterling silver bangles will be available at a deep discount during Wednesday’s one day only Kara Ackerman Jewelry Sample Sale. Ackerman’s pieces will act as the perfect statement piece with fall’s warm colored clothing.

Clothing, accessories, clothing, accessories; this week’s sample sale schedule works quite nicely, doesn’t it? Stock up now and enjoy it later, this month’s round of sample sale shopping will not only benefit your wallet, but both your fall and spring ’13 closets!

By Caitlin Colford

Founded in 1935, Michael C. Fina has been local to Fifth Avenue ever since. Helming the notoriety of being among the very first companies in New York City to feature bridal registry services, Michael C. Fina continues to be widely known for their spectacular selection of bridal jewelry.

This year marks the third anniversary of the popular Michael C. Fina Sample Sale, but only the first year that they are offering fashion jewelry at a discount as well, rather than strictly bridal pieces.

The lunchtime rush was in full effect as I entered the first day of the store’s sample sale. Anxious brides and nervous groom-hopefuls crowded around the glass displays that held engagement rings and wedding bands for 30-70% off. The 30% off display featured platinum, white gold, and rose gold engagement rings and wedding bands. Although platinum continues to be the most popular choice in bridal rings, according to a Fina employee, white and rose gold are making a strong comeback. Duly noted!

While making my way through the crowd I discovered a nice selection of bridal rings in the 60% off display, including a fun selection of stacking bands, ideal for an anniversary present. The small array of bridal rings discounted at 70% off were on the traditional side and for the most part ignored by the excited, young shoppers.

In knowing Michael C. Fina is known for their traditional and bridal jewelry I was pleasantly surprised to find a nice selection of fun, fashionable pieces for a casual day. The back room played home to this assortment, which was on display for 40% off. A pretty 14KT Hamsa Necklace was one of the standouts of the area. The necklace is a blend of white and yellow gold, as well as silver, and features diamond detail within the hamsa ($726, orig. $1,210, pictured).

There were also some great, simple necklaces with funky diamond encrusted accents such as the evil eye, a skull, anchors, and individual initials ($339, orig. $565). Some more traditional pieces in the 40% off section included gorgeous white gold tennis bracelets with diamonds ($1404, orig. $2,340, pictured), a diamond bouquet necklace and chandelier pendants.

Another piece featuring the evil eye as a hanging tag was on the dazzling white and rose gold initial rings ($780, orig. $1300, pictured).

Before calling it a day take a peek at the cases in the middle of the store, which hold classic strands of pearls for 40% off, as well as pieces featuring Tahitian and golden pearls, also on sale for 40% off. Nearby there is also a small collection of colored rings for 60% off, such as the popular pink ruby and diamonds with gold ring ($2,268, orig. $5,670, pictured), blue topaz with white diamonds ring ($2,040, orig. $5,100, pictured), and the yellow topaz with diamonds gold ring ($3,828, orig. $6,380, pictured).

The Michael C. Fina Sample Sale lasts until 8PM on August 2^nd, providing plenty of time for you jewelry lovers to make your way to 545 Fifth Avenue. With a beautiful selection of necklaces, bracelets, and engagement rings, there is no better time to start kissing up to your loved one, in hope of a very special, and very gorgeous gift.

WHEN: 8/1 – 8/2; W-Th (11-8)

WHERE: 545 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10017

By Caitlin Colford