How to Survive a Sample Sale

I love a good deal, so it should go without saying that sample sales are totally my jam. While perusing the sale racks at some of my favorite affordable stores is fun, there’s just something about scoring a designer piece for a reasonable price! Living in NYC is both terrible and fantastic for my shopping habits. There are entire spaces devoted to sample sales, and websites like Racked NY keep me up to date on what brands are on the docket. I’ve gotten some amazing deals on everything from Rebecca Minkoff bags, to Tibi dresses, to Pour La Victoire boots…but, not without some serious determination. Here are 5 things you need to successfully score at a sample sale:

1. A shopping buddy: Bring someone with you to help make decisions. Make sure it’s someone you trust, with similar style (or a good understanding of yours), who will be honest and make the experience fun.
2. An open mind when it comes to size: Try on multiple sizes. Even if you’re normally a size 8 dress, don’t automatically dismiss a 6 or 10 that you love on the rack. Samples can vary in size, so you’re better off grabbing it before someone else does and giving it a try.
3. A time limit: It’s easy to get lost in the racks and that feeling of overwhelm comes on pretty quickly. Give yourself a certain amount of time to pick things up and then re-evaluate. You can always go back for a second round.
4. A realistic budget: Some sample sales have crazy good deals that you just can’t resist, but try to go in with a budget in mind. And, most importantly, don’t get something just because it’s an amazing price if it’s only going to sit in your closet unworn.
5. Patience: The nature of sample sales makes them extremely popular, especially for well-known brands at peak hours like after work and lunchtime. Be prepared for lines (to get in/try on/pay), and anticipate that you’ll have to be assertive to get your hands on the goods.

It may sound crazy…and maybe it is, but it’s totally worth it!