Reader update: You should let everyone know that they stopped letting in people by 9:30 am stating that the sale is closed due to overcrowding. I have never seen anything like this before.
Today the Manolo Blahnik sample sale kicked off without a hitch. The sale was officially open to big foot press and insiders, and well, of course. Thursday morning everyone is welcome to come and shop and, of course, we have your game plan.
Normally, we are not big fans of waiting in lines or waking up with those in a European timezone but this sample sale may be worth the aggravation. (It might even be fun if you plan with a friend.) Doors officially open at 9am but those looking for first crack will start cueing up at about 6am or earlier. Shoppers will each get a ticked with a letter and then the wait begins. The best part is that once you get your ticket you can leave and come back.
Most of the best inventory is from this past winter’s collection but there are lots of sandals and summery styles from prior years. Prices start at $96 for styles that are plain, suede, leather or satin. Add some ornamentation and you’ll pay $125. Styles with large large rhinestones are $150. Prices are even great when you get into the exotics. Snake skins are $125, ostrich is $250 and you can go crazy with a alligator pair and that will still only cost you $300 from a retail price of $4300. (That’s less than the tax would cost.)
Boots cost a bit more but are priced equally as attractive. Shoe booties, styles below the ankle are $200 and those above the ankle are $250. Styles from mid-calf to the knee are priced at $300 and OTKs $400. Prices on boots top out at $500 for OTK styles in astrakhan, sequins or shearling.
Don’t count on finding classic BBs. We found a few styles of the famous shoe but they were either in patterned in plaid or lace. We found these bright pink chaos sandals that are currently $695 at Saks. We also saw this cream and white style from this past winter. There is an overwhelming assortment of satin styles in addition to many statement pieces.
Even though $96 Manolos are quite a rush, we prefer the boutique’s end of season sale. In August shoppers can score shoes at 75% off and not have to sift through plastic bags and search for missing mates. Did we mention that there is never a wait at the boutique!
Manolo Blanhik
Thursday, May 9th (public day)
Doors open at 9am
Warwick Hotel, 65 W 54th St. & 6th Ave, 2nd fl.
CASH ONLY
LEAVE A COMMMENT