The Manolo Blahnik sample sale kicked off this morning without a hitch. Early birds first arrived at the Warwick Hotel in the middle of the night and shoppers received their ticket numbers at about 7:30am.
The sale was opened employees, press and at 8:30am and the first group of “public” shoppers was allowed to enter the sale at about 10:30am. Normally, we are not big fans of waiting in lines or waking up with those in a European timezone but this sample sale is always special. (It might even be fun if you plan with a friend.) The best part is that once you get your ticket you can leave and come back.
When we finished shopping, at 11am they were already allowing group 4 to enter the sale. Arriving shoppers were given #21 at that time. We can’t say if there will be any selection by the time the #21s enter but don’t think the wait will be too crazy.
This season’s inventory is really a mixed bag from assorted seasons and years. Prices start at $125 for styles that are plain, suede, leather or satin. Add some ornamentation and you’ll pay $150. 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 with fur, lizard, embellished or shearling.
The best selection is for those wearing a size 37 or size 41 through size 42.5. The assortment is very small if you don’t fall into those categories. We didn’t notice any classic Hagisi style shoes but there are some finds with embellished buckles and rhinestones. This season we were really drawn to the great selection of flats. (Perhaps we’ve reached our quota for sky-high occasion shoes? Nah!)
Even though $125 Manolos are fantastic, we prefer the boutique’s end of season sale. In January, shoppers can score shoes at 75% off and can find a full-size assortment. Did we mention that there is never a wait at the boutique? Feel free to ask questions in the comment section or on Instagram.
Manolo Blanhik
Thursday, October 11th
Doors open at 9am and close when inventory runs out (about 3pm or 4pm)
Warwick Hotel, 65 W 54th St. & 6th Ave, 2nd fl.
CASH ONLY
