The VIP preview sale of Theyskens' Theory & Helmut Lang started early this morning. The sale space was shockingly quiet at 9:00am. With no competition from bargain shoppers in sight, I entered the showroom without difficulty and proceeded to shop. So, let me state the sad fact right away: the discounts weren't mind–blowing. If you're budget-conscious and looking to find tremendous discounts, the chances are high that you'll be leaving this sale empty-handed. If you are, on the other hand, a big Olivier fan who wants to pick up one of his stunning pieces at a modest markdown, then this is the sale for you.
Olivier's first–ever collection for Theory (plus Helmut Lang's past seasons' collections) were all organized very neatly by type of apparel. To summarize, the merchandise was very moody and neutral. It was hard to find any colorfully bright pieces, but materials were light & summery. There were lots of sharp tailored blazer/bottom combos in wrinkled linen, lingerie–like chiffon dresses (some in prints), and a wide array of denim. Dresses were $129 & $229, jackets were $249, leathers were $299, skirts were $79, sweaters were $149, and pants were $99. As always, the full price list is at the end of this article. Again, the cost to pick up one of Theyskens' pieces was a little higher than what I would have wanted, but I rationalized my purchases by convincing myself that it was still a deep fraction of what his designs once went for at Nina Ricci and Rochas.
Other than the clothing, I spotted a small pile of shoes, bags, and accessories. I found sharp pointy velvet flats which were $89 and dangerously high pump wedges that only Lady Gaga can pull off at $149. In addition, there were three boxes full of Theyskens' Theory & Helmut Lang handbags and three wired bins of accessories.
I must say, I was pretty surprised to see only around 15 ladies shopping when I was there. Tons of inventory was available (the denim section was huge!) and a fitting room was also provided. This sale ends on June 22nd, so you have a plenty of time to shop.
Price list:
Theyskens' Theory
Bags $179
Boots & Pumps $149
Flats $89
Dresses $129 & $229
Jackets & Outerwear $249
Leather $299
Casual bottoms $69
Pants $99
Skirts $79
Shirts $89
Knits $99
Sweaters $149
T–shirts $39
Sweaters $149
T–shirts $39
Tops $59
Helmut Lang
Accessories $49
Bags $179
Blazers $199
Bottoms $89
Denim $79
Casual dresses $99
Dresses $159
Leather $249
Leather jackets/Outerwear $349
Sweaters $149
Tops/Shirts $89
Trenches $219
T–shirts $49
Vests $129
Samples/Irregulars $20