Since NYC sample sales are almost non-existent these days, I felt the need to refuel my bargain shopping energy at our local department stores & boutiques--where final markdowns are in effect. At Saks, the final markdowns are located on the 9th floor (MizAdvice: take the express elevator). Once I reached the top floor, my eyes took in the glorious sight. High–end designer labels completely filled the 5th Ave facing side of the department store. Just to name a few, I spotted plenty of Oscar de la Renta, Giorgio Armani, Ralph Lauren, Donna Karen, Jil Sander, Reed Krakoff & Michael Kors. While, on the other hand, there was only a small selection of Chloé, Marc Jacobs, Jason Wu, & Vionnet. The labels were organized by designer with signs placed on top of racks. As a note, since it is a clearance sale, you might not be able to find your size for all items.
So, let's delve into the Saks Consolidation Sale a little further, shall we? Here is what I found. Stella McCartney's fitted blazer in dark beige was $457 (originally $1,525 & 9th photo below), Ralph Lauren's wonderfully draped strapless cocktail dress was $763.50 (originally $1,698), Burberry's utilitarian trench jacket was $447.74 (originally $995 & 10th photo below), and Michael Kors' cashmere wrap was $298.49 (originally $995). Moving to the Dolce & Gabbana section, I found a glam fur coat priced $1,018.49 (originally $3,3395 & 5th photo below), while a beautiful Zac Posen light tweed jacket was $704.99 (originally $1,409.99 & 4th photo below). My personal favorite, Giambattista Valli's racks, consisted of dresses, skirts, trousers, and jackets. One of these pieces was a floral strapless dress which was priced $730.50 (originally $2,435 & 7th photo below). Although most items that were available today were from spring/summer collections, I did find a variety of winter furs from Saks' fur salon. The discount for furs were 50% off retail plus an additional 25%.
To get my hands on designer shoes, I had to go down to the 8th floor shoeaholic paradise: 10022-SHOE. Though shoes weren't included in the mega consolidation sale, I was still able to find many pairs on sale. Sale items were grouped by size and were located towards the back of the floor (just don't forget to browse through the delectable new arrivals while you pass by!). Despite fewer discounts, the 8th floor shoe section was actually more crowded than the floor above. From Jimmy Choos to Zanottis, stilettos, pumps, sandals and flats were displayed on tables & shelves. Exotic peacock t-straps were $229.99 (originally $575 & 18th photo below), Miu Miu's bejeweled flats were $237.99 (originally $595 & 17th photo below), Manolo Blahnik's classy slingbacks were $265.99 (originally $665 & 15th photo below), Sergio Rossi's sexy snake skin sandals were $377.99 (originally $945 & 16th photo below), and pairs of short Jimmy Choo Hunter boots in black were $157.99 ($40 cheaper than Choo boutique price).
According to Saks, prices from today's Consolidation Sale will go back up on August 15th. The same sale event is also taking place online. As I mentioned, since there aren't many big designer sample sales happening during the summer, it's best to get your bargain shopping fix at boutiques & department stores.
