The Dolce & Gabbana sample sale started on Sunday. It wasn’t very surprising that costumers complained about waiting three to four hours to get into the sale. (One would think that after all these years, Soiffer Haskin would implement a system that would show a little bit more regard for their customers.)
The first Dolce & Gabbana reports were that prices were much higher than they have been during previous sales. Markdowns were announced on Monday morning but customers still said that prices were too high. The biggest surprise came later in the day when a reader emailed us saying that the retail sticker prices at the sale were inflated. We were skeptical at first because sample sale sticker prices can fluctuate a bit when there is a Euro conversion but this wasn’t the case.
Our keened eye reader sent us proof. Over this way, on Mr. Poter, Dolce briefs are $85. At the sample sale, they are marked $125. In another instance, pants at the Dolce & Gabbana boutique can be found for $900 but the retail price at the sale is marked $2200. There is a picture in the jump and we can assure you– it’s not a Euro conversion controversy.
As an alternative sample sale fix, we suggest you head way Downtown to Rosie Assoulin. Prices on older season merchandise can be found at 90% off retail. The best part is that there are no lines. As a matter of fact, there was nobody else there for most of the time we were shopping.
So let’s get down to ribbons and rainbows (nuts and bolts). The sale features a large selection of Rosie’s prior season collections and even some current pieces. A lot of the options are sample size 2s but there are some styles that have multiple size options. A bell sleeved crop top is $99 from $400, a puff sleeve wrap blouse is $419 from $1400 and this current season sweatshirt is $79 from $295. A spring 2018 pleated one-shoulder top is $400 from $1600. You can see lots of pretty pictures over here.
If you’re looking for a classic Rosie piece of art, browse the dresses or gowns. This cameo print dress is now $989 from almost $3400. A rainbow lamé wrap dress is about $599, while a pleated gown made of the same fabric initially retailed for $7000. The best find was a strapless gown with a high slit revealing rainbow layers that’s marked $650 from $6500. Click for pics.
While you’re shopping, take a moment to appreciate the fabrics and craftsmanship that goes into Rosie Assoulin’s pieces. You’ll notice the weight of each piece and the fabric quality. This is a prime example of getting what you pay for.
There are also shoe options starting at $50 for samples. The jewelry table has lots of earrings and other curiosities. The sale runs through Thursday. There will be no price reductions or restocking. If you can’t make it, there are some great pieces listed on TheRealReal for about the same as the sample sale. Pictures are in the jump and sale details are below and in our sample sale link.
Rosie Assoulin Sample Sale
Through Thursday, October 11
Tues 11am-8pm, Wed 11am-7pm, Thurs 10am-1pm
371 Broadway
