Sample Sale Season
Listen, ya girl will never turn down the opportunity to get a deal. My good Judy sent me a TikTok that Brandon Blackwood was having a sample sale this week so I did the only logical thing and booked a flight. Now I’m no stranger to taking day trips to New York but this was my 1st sample sale so my excitement was through the roof!
As the ultimate planner, I swiftly began doing my research on finding a price list, other sales and the best way to navigate the city. There are many “fashion curators” who organize sample sales but 260SampleSale and MadUnder stood out the most. On this trip, I decided to check out the sales for Lorvae, Brandon Blackwood & European Designers.
260SampleSale 5th Avenue location
The Madison Handbag I wanted.
Lorvae House Party
The YouTuber turned Eyewear Boss Lady De’arra Taylor has been on my radar for quite some time. I’ve been a long time subscriber and admirer of her personal style. So you could imagine my excitement when she announced that her brand, Lorvae, would be having a 3 year anniversary pop up the same day I would be in NYC. I currently own 2 sunglasses from the brand but I was hoping to snag a pair that’s been sold out for a while.
The pop up was held at 31 E 17th Street, New York NY, 10003.
Friday, April 18 & Saturday, April 19 : 10AM - 6PM
I arrived at the pop up around noon and the grand entrance matched De’arra’s vibrant, bigger than life personality. The line was wrapped around the building and stretched down another block. By the time I reached the end of the line, I was rethinking my decision to wait.
I only wanted one pair of sunnies and I wasn’t sure if they would even have them there. I waited in line for about 5 minutes before checking online to see if I could just order the pair I wanted. I must be God’s Favorite because the sunnies I wanted were back in stock AND on sale! I couldn't hit purchase and get out of line fast enough honey.
I’m so happy for De’arra and I hope her brand continue’s to succeed. I’m super excited to get my sunnies in the mail next week.
Bad Bitch Brandon Blackwood
As soon as I landed, I hit the ground running. 260SampleSales were the curators for this sale and it took place at 148 Lafayette Street, New York NY, 10013.
Tuesday, April 15 - Saturday, April 19 : 11AM - 7PM
Sunday, April 20 : 11AM - 5PM
Brandon Blackwood is one of my absolute favorite handbag designers so this sale was a no brainer. I arrived at the location at 10 AM and I was the 1st baddie in line.
The doors opened promptly at 11 AM and the staff greeted us with warm welcomes and big smiles. When you enter the space, you have to check your coat and bags before browsing the sale. Swimsuits, apparel (items from the Studio collection), footwear & handbags were on full display. Makeup goodies from Glossier were also there but we’ll talk about that later.
Apparel - Honestly, the Studio collection’s quality wasn’t great. As someone who has a BS in Fashion Design with 10+ years of industry experience, I wouldn’t bother purchasing. I love that Brandon Blackwood is expanding his portfolio but I think the spandex, skin tight clothing is a stark contrast to his elevated handbags and footwear. However, the swimsuits are more aligned with his brand identity. I really wanted to get a swimsuit or two but my size wasn’t available *cries in M/L*.
Handbags - The handbag selection was a bit disappointing as well. They had Trunks, Kuei bags, Syl bags and a few back packs. I already have 2 Trunks and a Syl bag but I was really hoping to find a Madison or any of the Metallic Trunks. I’ll definitely just purchase them online.
Footwear - The footwear selection was the star of the show. Almost every design was present. I only wanted the Sisal heel or flat sandals because they’re sold out online but they didn’t have my size.
Now let’s talk about Glossier. I’m not a Glossier girl but I do like their Clear Lip Gloss. They had the Cloud Paint Blush, Lidstar and Soft Touch Lip Creme which made it easy for me to walk past.
The Unbothered- Scarlet sunnies I ordered.
Dandy European Designers
Stopping by the European Designer sale for my beautiful girlfriend was a must. She loves good quality designer pieces so I figured I’d add this as the last stop.
MadUnder hosted the sale at 7 E 44th Street, New York NY, 10017
Wednesday, April 16 - Friday, April 18 : 11AM - 7PM
Saturday, April 19 - Sunday, April 20 : 12AM - 6PM
Brands like Gucci, Celine, YSL, Emilio Pucci, Ralph Lauren, Valentino and more were expected to be there for 80% off.
I arrived at 1:40 PM and there was no line and barely anyone shopping. There were more security guards than shoppers but the staff behind the counter was incredibly nice.
The menswear selection was mainly suit jackets and dress pants while the womenswear had more of a variety. Although 80% is an amazing discount, it was still out of my price range. Some of my fav designers like Prada and Jil Sander had a good selection. I was super close to purchasing a blue Jacquemus handbag but I just couldn’t justify spending $700 when my credit card bill is due next week lol.
Even though I came home empty handed, I’m so happy I did this and I definitely think I’ll continue doing it. Who’s with me?
