Caitlin Colford

Mid week we welcome the marvelous month of May. The sunny month full of flowers and mild weather is essentially the definition of perfection for New Yorkers. Al fresco dining commences, as does morning strolls in the park and fun outdoor trips with your friends and family. Fortunately for shoppers, sample sales continue to swim into our lives with a line up that refuses to die down, which is certainly not a complaint. This week, while saying hey to May, we bask in sales from Under Armour, Thakoon, AEFFE USA, Elizabeth and James, and Fashionhaus.

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

The Stylish City would like to take a moment to stand in solidarity with Boston, and thank the strong and brave residents, and of course the city’s officials and police for successfully protecting citizens and ultimately our country.

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

Holy Sample Sale! This week, the sale season is in full bloom with an ample selection of top-notch sales, fit for every shopping palette. After weeks of mediocre lineups, April brings us more sample sales than we can even make time for! Considering this week’s sale buffet, take time to select the sales worth your while and prioritize! In this case, if you have spare time by the end of the week, you can always pop into the final days of the lower priority sales on your agenda. This week, don’t miss James Perse, Jil Sander, Lauren Merkin, White + Warren and Vivienne Tam.

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

Easter’s over, the eggs have hatched, and this week spring has officially arrived! Dig out your favorite pair of brightly colored sneakers and tie those laces tightly because this week’s lineup of sample sales requires ample movement! Finally, the spring sample sale season is in full swing (say that ten times real fast). Luckily, given the dull dip in sample sale movement over the course of the past few months, we shoppers have been able to save up our pennies. This week, break open that piggy bank and be sure not to miss Elie Tahari, Tusk, Joy Gryson, Badgley Mischka and Beyond Vintage.

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