Sample does it.

Sample sale top tips.

A few months ago now I went to my first ever sample sale. I didn't really know what to expect and it really wasn't what I expected.
The next time I go I will take the following tips with me.

The early worm.... The sale started at 10.00am and I got there at 12.30pm (it was a two hour journey to get there mind) and most of the things had gone. All of the handbags most of the garments. Next time I will be in the queue banging the door down for when they open.

Sample sizes......... if you are a size 12 onwards don't go thinking you are going to be walking away with a cheeky new dress. All garments that I could see were sample sizes and are small. Just look at the models walking down the catwalk to see what size they are made for.
I went knowing that it was the shoes, bags and in the case of Jasper's AW11 season the hat,s I was going for.

Stage clothes...... and thirdly, and this is the thing that surprised me the most about sample sales being the complete novice that I am is, some of the garments are not fully completed wearable everyday clothes.
Some are press studded down the back, like quick change stage clothes,  easy to get on and off during a fashion show I guess. So if you are lucky enough to get into a sample garment you may need to send it to a seamstress to get it finished or if you are feeling brave leave as it is and wear some nice underwear underneath. :0)

The crush.....Finally don't think well heeled women are polite and considerate when hunting down a couture bargain, because first hand experience tells me they are not. A bargain is a bargain which ever way your bread is buttered. 

I had a great time, it was a fantastic experience, a great day out and I brought myself two pairs of shoes and a fabulous Stephen Jones hat all for under fifty quid. 

Bargain of the year I would say.

My new hat, walking down the catwalk February 2011 Somerset House. 

Photo kind permission from Jasper Conran and jasperconran.com