It’s been a long time since we’ve seen the inside of a sample sale. With discounts at department stores tipping 80%, it’s hard to argue the purpose. As a Stacey Bendet fan, however, we just couldn’t resist checking out the VIP preview of the Alice & Olivia sample sale.
Inside the private event space– at the downtown Century 21 store– is a small collection of some of the designer’s more ornate gowns, dresses and accessories. Prices are reduced 65% to 70% off retail. Much of the selection is from Spring 2015 and some of the best pieces (and most highly discounted) are from the CFDA Fashion is Art collection. Take note that the length of the longer dresses and skirts are highly exaggerated and even at 5’9″ you’re going to need to factor in the price for hemming.
Among the items reduced 70% are exaggerated long skirts and ball gown length dresses. One skirt with an iridescent floral print comes to about $540 from $1800, a more impressionist art print is $180 from almost $600, a fully embroidered jacket is $160 from $550 and a red and white dress with cap sleeves is $430 from $1600. The sale also includes some less expensive items that are not as ornate but those resemble the special gowns that hang in the windows of garment district retailers.
The sample sale also includes a selection of evening bags and clutches that range from fully embellished box bags to more quirky shapes and styles. A bag with a hand silhouette and flashy ‘diamond’ is discounted to about $140 from $400 and a fan bag is $70 from $200.
You can head this way to see pictures of the sample sale selection. The sale runs through Friday. We suggest you wait for further markdowns before heading over unless you desire one of the more artful items.
Alice & Olivia Sample Sale
Tuesday, February 2 through Friday, February 5
Tues to Thurs 8am-9pm, Fri 8am-6pm
21 Dey Street (@Century 21)
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