By ManhattanMataHari

Following the news of Filene’s Basement going out of business, we anticipated some serious liquidation prices on the designer merchandise. As is the case with many going out of business sales, we found the Filene’s merchandise to be sparse and even more expensive than a normal markdown.

The European “Vault” merchandise was an additional 20% off, but there was hardly anything to choose from. At Union square we saw a couple racks of Missoni (mostly horrible corduroy pants), and a few racks of Valentino ready-to-wear separates and dresses. Most of the items were still in the $400 to $500 range so the 20% discount wasn’t all that helpful. (If you look at our past stories, you will see a range of better merchandise that is expensive.)

The most organized and well-stocked section was designer accessories, which can be found in glass cases. A Gucci monogram tote with their signature red and green stripe detailing was still $1389, although the pricing for the belts were much better. Celine and Prada belts were around $200, and there were lots of different styles of Dolce & Gabbana belts for $89. Ferragamo and Pucci scarf fans will fare best, with many silk scarves available between $59 and $119. These accessories were also an additional 20% off.

A trip uptown, to the store’s Broadway location, fared no better. There were hardly any designer duds left over except for an unattractive Missoni jacket that was still $600. If you are willing to sift through the racks we would suggest trying the Union Square location. The store’s last email blast announced an additional markdown but we would suggest saving your cab fare and allocation the funds towards some more meaningful shopping.

Just when you thought that the end of Missoni had come at Target, a markdown occurs. Yes, there were lots of returns and they items are quietly being resotcked online and some have even been discounted.

During our last Target shopping trip we found a throw, kid’s shoes, rain boots, lots of bedding, throw pillows and decore boxes. If you check online now, you will also find some interesting items including the hard to get Missoni Bicycle (still $400), poufs (now $59 from $99), bed sets 30% off, kid’s rain boots, iPad case (still $60) and newborn sweater suit ($25).

Prices vary between the stores themselves and online. We even heard about one store manager telling a customer, “I hate this stuff. I can’t stand to even look at it any more. Will you take it if i mark it down to clearance price?.” The answer as obviously a difinitive, YES!