*SAMPLE SALE* Going Gabbanas

A woman in Dolce & Gabbana is instantly recognizable. With the brand's Sicilian heritage, I always feel sexy & "bellissima" whenever I have my Gabbana on. This is one of the reasons why I was so happy when I learned that the label would be hosting a 5-day sample sale in Chelsea. Feeling extra excited about the event and today's wonderful weather, I quickly made my way to the Metropolitan Pavilion.

Last year when I attended the Dolce & Gabbana sample sale, I found tons of eye-catching colors, party frocks, showy accessories, and quirky polka-dots. Well, this year was not much different. The 5th floor showroom was PACKED with vibrant colors, wild patterns, va-va-voom corsets, fit-and-flare dresses, and the label's signature hourglass sheaths & leopard prints. Molto molto Dolce & Gabbana! The sale ambiance was by no means "hectic", but it would clearly evident that ladies were "going bananas" over the available merchandise and pricing. Speaking of which, the pricing system was simple and easy to understand; 2012 collection pieces (this includes RTW, shoes, accessories, and bags) were discounted 60% off, 2011 collection pieces were 70% off, 2010 collection pieces were discounted 80% off, 2009 & prior were 90% off, and archives & code 2999 were discounted 60% off. To mention a few specifics, an oversized-shoulder fuchsia jacket was $299.50 (originally $2,995 & photo above), a gold sequined party frock was $399.50 (originally $3,995 & 1st photo below), a yellow floral print dress was $448.50 (originally $1,495 & 4th photo below), a black & white polka-dot top was $139 (originally $695 & 3rd photo below), a silk crepe leopard print knee-length skirt was $106.50 (originally $355 & 3rd photo below), and a mocha knit jacket was $679 (originally $3,395 & 5th photo below).

The shoe section was as festive as ever. Sizes ranged from 35 to 40. I spotted star-cutout pink leather pumps for $223.50 (originally $745 & 1th photo below), fuchsia patent pumps for $47.50 (originally $475 & 10th photo below), and leopard print strappy sandals from the D&G label for $127.50 (originally $425 & 12th photo below). Situated right next to the shoe aisles were 7 racks of leather belts & chain belts.

Handbags were located all the way in the back right corner of the space. There were lots of oversized floral canvas totes from D&G's garden-inspired collection from 2011. I also spotted Dolce & Gabbana's Miss Sicily handbag in white crochet, a $225 leather patchwork bowling tote (16th photo below), and $192.50 woven straw mini shoulder bags.

Men's merchandise was abundant as well. From tastefully fitted suits to more casual wears like denims & sporty jackets, men's merchandise (including 5~6 racks of men's shoes) filled half the showroom. If you are looking to splurge on your little ones, 4 racks of children's clothing & shoes were located near the men's shoe section.

This year's Dolce & Gabbana sample sale had more merchandise than ever before. I found many amazing pieces reasonably priced. In addition, most merchandise looked to be in excellent condition. Any woman who wants to feel sexy needs a little Dolce & Gabbana in her closet, and this sample sale fills that need perfectly.