Don’t miss this week

Okay online shoppers, put down the credit card and step away from the computer, I repeat, step away from the computer! Take a moment to go outside, breathe in the crisp, fresh air, and soak up some Vitamin D, because the number prove you haven’t seen the outdoors much this week. This Cyber Monday racked up a whopping, and record shattering, $1.465 billion dollars alone, not including the surprise, pop up online sales that stretched through Friday, making it a full on “Cyber Week.”

Aha! I see you sneaky smart phone user, don’t think you’re getting away with your overindulging online shopping this week! After reading this article, it’s time to keep your eyes on the road and get back to something we humans like to call, conversation. An incredible 58.1% of all Cyber Monday shoppers were smart phone users, up nearly 20% from last year. Are your thumbs tired yet?

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not rejecting online shopping and shoppers alike (hello, I’m among you!), I am simply trying to congratulate you on the amazing Internet deals you scored over this past week and invite you back into the real world of in-store shopping and sample sales. We are all set on our big-ticket items (i.e. flat screen TVs, leather jackets, designer purses, etc.), so now it’s time to focus on small, thoughtful gifts for others and some killer outfits for the upcoming season of holiday parties. Remember: this may be your last week to shop before the parties commence!

Saturday — Saturday: Sample Sale Alert: ORANGE

If you recall during our Thanksgiving edition of Don’t Miss, we alerted our readers to a new code system in announcing the severity of the upcoming sample sale line-up. Orange= good deals, high fashion, and worth a first day visit. It also means that it is necessary to check back in with us throughout the week for up to date information on which sample sales to get to and which to skip. This week, keep an eye out for Target and Neiman Marcus Holiday Collection, Vivienne Westwood, Helmut Lang, Joie, Current/Elliott, The News Sample Sale, and the rescheduled Manolo Blahnik Sample Sale.

SATURDAY

Target + Neiman Marcus Holiday Collection

There’s no better way to celebrate the shift of online shopping to the chaotic in store shopping than a trip to Target on Saturday in order to celebrate the Target + Neiman Marcus holiday collection. Check out Mirela’s article on the collection for a teaser and prepare yourself to browse their 50-piece collection.

Vivienne Westwood Sample Sale

Brits scream with glee today, as the Vivienne Westwood Sample Sale is unveiled on 36^th Street. There are many gifting options to be had at this up-to-60%-off-sale, including scarves, wallets, jewelry, sunglasses, and watches, on top of the full assortment of women’s apparel of course.

SUNDAY

Helmut Lang Sample Sale

Who doesn’t love Helmut Lang? Since 2007, Theory (another favorite) has been behind the brand and we have loved every second of it. West 36^th Street plays home to this year’s Helmut Lang Sample Sale where dresses will be as low as $145 (hello holiday outfit!). Keep your fashionable eyes peeled for their famous leather leggings.

TUESDAY

Joie, Current/Elliott & Equipment Sample Sale

Up to 75% off retail prices of outerwear, sweaters, tees, and the perfectly edgy denim line from Current/Elliott is being boasted in the advertisement for the Joie, Current/Elliott & Equipment Sample Sale, which starts at 9AM Tuesday at 260 Fifth Avenue.

THURSDAY

Manolo Blahnik Sample Sale

Rescheduled from November 6^th, the Manolo Blahnik Sample Sale is back on after having been rained out by Superstorm Sandy. Where better to score a killer pair of holiday party heels? Last time around, the beloved Manolo Blahnik Sample Sale was handled with organizational care. It is advised to get there extremely early (the sale begins at 9am), especially if you’re dying to be among the first to get your hands on a pair or two of Manolos. If you’re lucky enough to be among the first batch of shoppers you’ll be given a ticket, which will indicate your allotted shopping time. If you’re prepared for a day of waiting around for a mere hour of cash only, Manolo Blahnik shopping, then grab yourself a Venti coffee Thursday morning and head on out by day-break.

The News Sample Sale

Be prepared to stock up on a slew of gifts for the downtown fashionista in your life. Last year, The News Sample Sale rocked, literally, with edgy tees, destructed denim, graphic sweatshirt, and a wide range of affordable indie designer wear and accessories. If anything compared to last time around, The News Sample Sale is a do not miss.

We shoppers make it no secret that we’re championing the recession that has gripped us in recent years, and what better way to stimulate the economy than by shopping for not only yourself, but for your loved ones as well. This holiday season we’ll show the economy who’s boss, one handbag at a time.

By Caitlin Colford

To Our Valued and Beloved Readers,

It is from the depths of our hearts that we offer our condolences to those affected by Hurricane Sandy’s destructive path. Last week, many were left with little to nothing from the vicious super-storm even the most prepared could not battle. Homes were destroyed, lives were lost, and spirits were broken. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you who have been impacted by Sandy’s wrath and we deeply hope your friends and family are safe.

As power is gradually restored, we crawl slowly towards our return to normalcy. The Stylish City considered not releasing a “Don’t Miss This Week” because for many, shopping will be the last thing on anyone’s mind this week. But for some, it may act as a stress reliever — retail therapy if you will – and that is why we have decided to bring you suggestions on where to shop this week in hope that it restores a sense of relief within and helps you take your mind off the horrible week our surrounding area has had, if only for a little bit. For a shopping escape this week, visit sales from Alexander Wang, AEFFE USA Clothing, Pixie Market, Dsquared2, Maison Martin Margiela, Viktor&Rolf, and the invitation only sale from Christian Louboutin, and Manolo Blahnik.

Alexander Wang Sample Sale

The uber popular Alexander Wang Sample Sale is back this week and edgy dressing New Yorkers are bursting at the seams with excitement. Last year, aside from long lines, the Alexander Wang Sample Sale brought us $20 tee shirts and $60 knit sweaters from Wang’s T line. This year, the sale promises up to 70% off ready-to-wear, shoes and accessories at 131 Greene Street beginning Tuesday, November 6^th.

AEFFE USA Fall/Winter Sample Sale

Wednesday, November 7^th brings the bi-annual clearance sale at AEFFEE USA on 56^th Street. Although retail sale more than a sample sale, AEFFE plans to reduce their fall and winter stock by 65% or more. Brands you should plan to come across are Alberta Ferretti, Cacharel, Fuzzi, Jean Paul Gaultuer, Moschino and Pollini.

Dsquared2, Maison Martin Margiela, Viktor&Rolf, and more Sample Sale

The sleek looking Dsquared2 line and pieces from the cutting edge Viktor&Rolf will be on sale starting Thursday, November 8^th at Staff USA on West 19^th Street. Staff USA also promises stock and samples in addition to Fall and Winter 2012 pieces from Maison Martin Margiela, MM6 and more.

Pixie Market Sample Sale (Rescheduled from Last Week)

If you love downtown fashion, then you are already aware of the Lower East Side’s Pixie Market on Stanton Street. Friday, Pixie Market will host a sample sale with price slashes on all of our favorite edgy designers. According to their sale listing, women’s apparel and accessories are priced between $20-$40! I know where I’ll be Friday: First in line to scope out their Jeffrey Campbell sale selection.

Invitation Only: Christian Louboutin and Manolo Blahnik Sample Sale

As reported last week, Christian Louboutin  was planning to hold a super exclusive, invitation only sample sale  at 306 West 38^th Street starting   Monday, November 5th.    The Warwick Hotel was supposed to play home to the super exclusive Manolo Blahnik sample sale starting  this Wednesday, November 7^th. MadisonSpy.com reports that both sales have been cancelled or rescheduled. Keep checking up with us,  we will update you Monday with more information about both sales and any other last minute changes to the others.

If you were fortunate enough to come out from the storm unscathed and wish to help those less fortunate, please consider volunteering in impacted areas and donating to the Red Cross. The NYC Mayor’s Office is urging people to sign up through NYC Service. They are seeking volunteers for various efforts (via Gothamist).

In our technological age, donating is simple. The American Red Cross has been crucial to the recovery of Hurricane Sandy victims and is offering shelter, clothing, supplies, food and blood. To donate $10 to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief, text the word REDCROSS to 90999 or you can call 800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

For those who remain without water, heat and electricity, all New York Sports Clubs have opened their doors to all and are offering a place of solace. Visit your local club for warmth, a stress relieving work out, hot shower, sauna, and charging stations.

We wish you all a fast recovery.

By Caitlin Colford

As Hurricane Sandy takes the east coast by force this Halloween week, we can’t help but brace ourselves for what has the potential to be the worst storm the tri-state has ever seen. Most, if not all of us, will be bound to our homes on Monday and Tuesday, hopefully safe and sound, drinking hot cocoa and browsing the infinite pages of the Internet, hoping to score some shopping steals. We’ll use shopping to get us through Sandy’s impending doom and also to celebrate her departure, which can’t come quickly enough. Fellow sweet tooth’s: Let’s not allow Sandy to steal the spotlight from our favorite candy themed holiday (Happy Halloween!) and aside from snacking all day on Reese’s, Snickers, and Milky Ways, satisfy your shopping cravings with super sweet sales from Furla, Under Amour, United Nude, Pixie Market and Rena. We’ll also give you a sneak peak of next week’s sales, post-Frankenstorm and how to utilize your time stuck in your apartment wisely.

Furla Sample Sale

Given the Furla Sample Sale will more than likely be cancelled on Tuesday, you can still be the first in line come Wednesday as Clothingline on 36^th Street opens its doors to unveil deep discounts on luxurious leather bags, shoes, and small accessories from Furla.

Due to the effects of Hurricane Sandy, the Furla Sample Sale has been postponed to November 25th.

Under Armour Sample Sale

Monday morning it was reported that Hurricane Sandy has more than a 50% chance of knocking out power, which can last for up to ten days. Yikes! As nights become chillier and the prospects of having heat this week becomes dismal, the Under Armour Sample Sale couldn’t come at a better time. Wednesday’s Halloween day Thursday will bring fantastic deals on performance gear at 260 Fifth Avenue. After we load up on new workout gear, we’ll grab some long sleeve Under Armour performance shirts to wear under our fur coats.

United Nude Sample Sale

No censors here. Thursday’s United Nude Sample Sale will feature not only their abstract 2012 spring and summer styles, but also pairs of shoes from their fall and winter 2011 collections for low prices between $25-$100. United Nude’s funky and eye catching heels, which helm names such as the ‘Elastic Remix Hi’ and ‘Fold Lo Bright Miz’ are essential if you want a knock out pair of heels this winter.

Due to the effects of Hurricane Sandy, the United Nude Sample Sale has been postponed to November 8th.

Pixie Market Sample Sale

If you love downtown fashion, then you are already aware of the Lower East Side’s Pixie Market on Stanton Street.  Friday, Pixie Market will host a sample sale with price slashes on all of our favorite edgy designers. According to their sale listing, women’s apparel and accessories are priced between $20-$40! I know where I’ll be Friday: First in line to scope out their Jeffrey Campbell sale selection.

Due to Hurricane Sandy, the Pixie Market Sample Sale has been postponed to November 9th.

Rena Lange Sample Sale

The Stylish City loves a true blue sample sale, and Rena Lange is hosting one starting Sunday in their showroom on 14^th Street. For up to 90% off, the designer brand will offer their wow-worthy-work suits and outfits from Fall/Winter 2012 as well as sample and stock pieces in sizes 4-14.

Due to Hurricane Sandy, the Rena Lange Sample Sale has been postponed to December 16th.

Post Frankenstorm

The rain has cleared, the streets are dry, and we’re fully recouped from the ultimate Halloween hurricane. Next week, Christian Louboutin and Manolo Blahnik are both holding super exclusive, invitation only sample sales. As we’ve learned in the past, there is no getting around security at the door. So, here’s the thing. While you’re sitting around for the next few days, trapped inside, utilize your time wisely and troll fashion blogs and email industry pals in order to find your way on to Christian Louboutin and Manolo Bahnik’s super exclusive sample sale list. If you’re successful, share your excitement or your tips in our comments section!

Also, next week keep an eye out for the always fabulous Alexander Wang Sample Sale, as well as the AEFFE USA, and Armani Sample Sales.

New York City will be sweeping up Sandy’s destruction during the latter half of this week and while our city officials get things up and running again, we’ll help stimulate the economy by doing what we do best: shopping!

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