Department store markdowns are the slowest in memory. As one Saks salesman remarked, “We are getting revenge from last year.” Oh, there’s no revenge in shopping. We just lust after great deals.
If you’re still in holiday shopping mode you’re going to want to check out our discount guides for the Meatpacking District, Men’s boutiques, 5th Avenue/ 57th Street and, of course, Madison Avenue. Below are the department store promotions.
Barneys: Congrats to Barneys for becoming the first department store to take a second markdown. The sale is now 60% off on shoes and clothing and bags and accessories etc. Sizes are going fast. Be careful if you are ordering online. The inventory for the site is not maintained in real time. Orders often get canceled when items are sold out.
Bergdorf Goodman: The first markdown of the season followed Black Friday. Women’s 3rd floor designers, shoes, accessories and the men’s store were all discounted 40%. Second markdown will begin Tuesday and all the same departments will discount fall/winter merchandise 60%. With one wave of the sale wand, Bergdorf has become the best place to shop — for selection and price–before Christmas. We imagine there will not be an additional discount until mid-January.
Bloomingdales: Figuring out the discount at Bloomingdales always takes a math PhD. The 40% off regular price, plus an extra 20% incentive, plus an additional 15% off if you use your Bloomies card brings the saving to, drum roll please… 58.4% off. I hope I did that right. While you’re there don’t forget to pick up a Nespresso espresso. It’s the perfect antidote to the cold weather and shopping fatigue.
Saks: How we used to love Saks. Though 30% to 40% off is just not that lovable. We spoke to several sales people today only to find out that there will be no additional discount until after Christmas. And it’s after Christmas when our love will return to Saks. Until noon Satuday you can take an additional 50% off already reduced prices for a total of up to 70% off. After noon, Saturday, the discount goes to 40%. We suggest you find a sales person immediatly if you would like to take advantage of the early discount.
Neiman Marcus: The official discount on fine apparel and designer collections is still just 40%. We are told that the stores are “awaiting a directive for after Christmas sales.” However, we have heard reports about Viviers at half off. We’re not crossing a bridge or tunnel any time soon. So we’re going to need you to report back on what you see.