Who needs a gym membership when you can shop those pounds away? All those heavy bags and hiking up and down Manhattan city streets in 4-inch heels must account for some body toning and calorie burning. Well, today, we focused our shopping efforts– yes we are going to call it that–on the Meatpacking District. When you’re done reading here, be sure to check out the rest of our sale hunting series, which includes, department stores, Madison Avenue and Midtown and Soho.

Alexander McQueen
Presale started almost a week ago at Alexander McQueen but the sale doesn’t officially start until Thursday. Clothing is 40% off while shoes and handbags are cut 30%. There’s still a nice selection of merchandise and we truly loved the underwater inspired collection. Just beware some sales people –aham, Max– can be a bit short but that isn’t reflective of all the store’s employees.
Mosell 212-645-1797

McQueen

Jeffrey
Although some Missoni, Jason Wu, Oscar de la Renta, Burberry and Stella has been marked down, the remainder of the store is still running at full price. We expect the sale to start before the weekend, so this would be a perfect to start sorting out your purchases with a sales associate.
Charles: 212-206-1272

Matthew Williamson
Our mouths begin to water like Governor Chris Christie at a Thanksgiving table when we hear that one of our favorite designers has started the season with a 60% markdown. The only items not included in the sale are shoes designed by Charlotte Olympia.
Lindsey: 212-255-9881

Nicholas Kirkwood
Although we think Nicholas Kirwood chose the wrong neighborhood to open a boutique—we are bit bias—we won’t hold it against him. To start off spring on the right foot, Kirkwood is reducing spring and summer style shoes by 30%. Exclusions include staple pieces like the bow shoes and suede varieties.
Kayla: 646-559-5239

Nicholas Kirkwood

Owen
Meatpacking District newcomer Owen, carries brands like Surface to Air, Suno, Karen Walker and Cheap Monday. For their first neighbrorhood sale they are starting with a 30% price cut. The only brands not included in the markdown are Jen Kao and Genetic Denim.
Phil: 212-524-9770

Yigal Azrouel
While their 40% markdown may not be as inexpensive as a sample sale, you just can’t discount the boutique experience. A Yigal leather jacket cannot be underestimated. Unfortunately, accessories are not included in the markdown, yet. Only some older belts and scarves are eligible for the seasonal discount.
Willis: 212-929-7525

Even a hot day like today couldn’t keep us away from scoping out the best markdowns. After exploring the department stores, Madison Avenue and Midtown, we set our sights on Soho. Below is the markdown status at some of the best stores South of Houston.

Acne
Acne is moving on June 8th and is holding off on their summer sale until the move is complete. In the meantime, the sizzling hot fashion label is hosting a promotion on their fall and winter overstock. The sale starts on Wednesday and past season merchandise and assorted denim will be 70% off. The sale runs through June 8th and we suggest going getting there fast. Although the stock is plentiful, it will not last long at such a discount.
212-625-2828

Acne SS2012

Alexander Wang
There is currently no markdown at Alexander Wang boutique but online customers were recently sent a promo discount code for 40% off. You can use this link to access the online sale. For this season, we are especially into the brand’s iconic asymmetrical draped dresses.
Myra 212-977-9683

Derek Lam
Presale has started at Derek Lam and the discount is 40% off spring and summer merchandise. The markdown officially starts Friday, but you can request that merchandise “be sent for approval.” This means that a sales person will messenger you your desired items and charge your card for the ones you keep. What you don’t want can be sent back to the store. Usually this type of customer service is reserved for a boutique’s best clients. If you do take advantage of such a program, we suggest that you’re respectful of the boutique and immediately send back whatever you’re not going to keep. Our personal rule is less than 24-hours
Leah: 212-966-1616

IF
IF has a number of hard-to-find international designers and high-end mainstays like Dries Van Noten, Ann Demeulemeester, Comme de Garcons and Rick Owens. Presale is already underway and most clothing is 35% off and shoes are 30% off. The sale officially starts Thursday.
Mizyo 212-334-4964

Kirna Zabete
The sale at Kirna Zabete starts Wednesday. Just be forewarned that the chic boutique has already sold out of many hot items. If you make it down to the boutique, take advantage of the store’s stylists. It’s always nice to get a fresh perspective and they are really good!
Lauren 212-941-9656

Vera Wang SS2012

Nannette Lepore
This designer’s flirty frocks and separates have been marked down 40%. Fun print swimsuits are included in the markdown but the new swim is excluded, along with an array of runway pieces.
Jenny 212-219-8265

Vera Wang
We must say that we desperately miss the Vera Wang markdowns on Madison. Since the brand moved to Soho, sale shopping has not been the same. On the bright side, presale has already started and clothing is 40% off and shoes are discounted 20%. The sale officially starts later this week but select items like sunglasses are not included.
Marina 212-382-2184