If you’re like me, you like to dress sharp. It’s not the cost of the clothes that matters, but the quality. The problem is that high quality clothes usually come with a high price tag. The good news is that if you’re patient and don’t mind wearing last seasons styles, you can save a pile of money by purchasing your clothes at sample sales.
Sample sales are usually organized by vendors looking to sell off extra merchandise, or merchandise used as samples to show local retailers. This merchandise (usually shoes and clothing) is almost always flawless, but sells at a fraction of retail value.
Because sample sales are usually held at impromptu locations using temporary sign-age, they can be a bit difficult to find out about. I generally find local sample sales by visiting I Love Samples Sales, but it appears that website is no longer around. The site covers a few major cities, and provides an optional mailing list which you can sign up for to receive notifications as sample sales are posted. The other option is to frequent forums such as Style Forum and Super Future. Members usually post sample sale dates and locations (with scanned posters) as they find out about them.
If you happen to miss the sample sales themselves, the clothes are often resold at double the price (still a fraction of retail value) on the previously listed forums, and many others.
Do you have any great tips on finding discounted clothes? Leave a comment; I want to hear from you.
I have been doing this for quite a while. Not only is this a great way to save money on your clothes, you can also make a profit from it. I usually buy extras at the sample sale and then turn around and sell the extra items on style forum and make a nice little profit 🙂
Sam
I have been doing this for quite a while. Not only is this a great way to save money on your clothes, you can also make a profit from it. I usually buy extras at the sample sale and then turn around and sell the extra items on style forum and make a nice little profit 🙂
Sam
I personally use flash sale websites. I really prefer to get higher-end clothing, so use websites like Gilt and Rue La La. They basically sell off surplus stock at lower prices than usual, but they only last for a certain amount of time. I get most of my branded clothes like this now, and I’m sure it’s saved me money.
If you check them regularly enough you can find some real bargains. I came across a list of the top flash-sale websites at ‘The Store’ so some of these may be worth a look. I think The Store also helps with searching through these websites to help you find what you want.
I hope this helps.
Peter