The Manolo Blahnik sample sale kicked off this morning without a hitch. Early birds first arrived at the Warwick Hotel starting at 4am. Ticket numbers were handed out at 7:30am, which made many shoppers unhappy because there was no priority given to those who arrived early.
The sale was opened employees, press and at 9:00am and the first group of “public” shoppers was allowed to enter the sale at about 11:00am. 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 just about to give the first public shoppers entrance. Arriving shoppers were given #50 at that time. We can’t say if there will be any selection by the time the #50s enter because some sizes were running slim even when we first arrived at the sale.
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 35 to size 37 and than those wearing shoes larger than a 39.5. The assortment is very small if you don’t fall into those categories. We did notice a few Hagisi styles, which is like spotting a unicorn at a sample sale. This season we found it hard to choose between gorgeous novelty style shoes and everyday basics. (Perhaps we’ve reached our quota for sky-high occasion shoes? Nah!)
Even after with all the crowds, every shopper was admitted by 3:15pm. We are told there was still a tiny bit left over when the sale closed at 4:30. We have a feeling lots of New Yorkers are going to be strutting into Memorial Day with new heels.
Despite the rock-bottom ticket prices of $125, we prefer the boutique’s end of season sale. In August, 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?
Also, most of our local retailers have sales of 40% off and there are lots of Hangisi options. We linked to some above. Feel free to ask questions in the comment section or on Instagram.
Manolo Blahnik
Wednesday, May 22
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
