Savvy Tips

Before you go to a sample sale, check out your closet. Make a quick list of what you have and what you don’t. This way you’ll know exactly what you need to complete your wardrobe for the season. You’ll also avoid making the cardinal sample-sale mistake: purchasing something you don’t need, doesn’t quite fit or you don’t really like because it was such a great deal. Save the time and hassle and explore your wardrobe first.

Every sale—without exception—will require you to check your coat. Some sales will only allow you to carry your wallet, requiring you to check your handbag as well. Be prepared. Go to the sale armed with your wallet and that’s it. You might want to bring a clear plastic bag if you can’t part with other essential items like your cell phone or keys. Without a coat or a bag, you’ll gain valuable shopping time while everyone else is stuck on the coat-check line.

In general, sample sales have merchandise from the current season, meaning you’re shopping for the same apparel and accessories that you see in stores. Sometimes you’ll also find some of last season’s garb or even some goodies left over from last year—all at phenomenal prices.

Typically, the first day holds your best chance at finding the most sought-after pieces. It’s important to buy what you really want right away. If you find some items that you’re not certain about purchasing, and it’s going to happen, ask one of the sales associates what their markdown policy is. Just remember—there is no guarantee that it will be there by the end of the sale.

You’ll also discover that the first day is the most chaotic day, so remember to be patient. If you want to be the first person in the door, make sure to get there early—even earlier for more popular or notable designers. Be prepared to wait. Often there are long lines to get in, check your coat and bags (where that wallet-only tip comes in handy), and ultimately to check out with your precious finds.

If the designer has a markdown policy for the last day, this is where the real bargains are to be had. The pro: You will be able to get designer duds for WAY less than retail. The con: It’s the last day, so the best pieces may be hard to find. But if you want to take a chance, you could be rewarded handsomely.

Are try-ons permitted? Is there a dressing room? If the event listing doesn’t answer these questions, pick up the phone. A simple call can save you hours of aggravation. If there’s no dressing room and you’re not modest, then go ahead and strip down. If you’re shy, wear a bodysuit or leggings underneath your clothes. If they don’t permit try-ons at all, go to your favorite department store a few days before the sale to try on that particular designer’s merchandise. Remember—every designer’s sizing could be different.

The policy is NO returns, NO exchanges and NO refunds at sample sales. Inspect each item carefully for flaws, tears, holes, stains, etc. If the sale allows try-ons, make sure each item fits properly before laying out any cash, even if you have the same item in different colors. Odd fits or sizes could be the reason the item is at the sample sale.

Though this is the rule, there can be exceptions. If you are charming, polite and discreet, a sale manager might cut you some slack and let you exchange your item. But that is rare, so make sure the purchase you make is the right one.