*SAMPLE SALE* Wangster's Paradise

When it comes to casual cool, trust Alexander Wang. This is particularly important when dressing for fall as there is no place quite like the Alexander Wang sample sale to satisfy your style needs (plus your wallet will thank you). So, to get some edgy modern staples, I dropped by the first day of the designer's sample sale in Soho. Just like I had imagined, the sale floor was chock full of Wang's merchandise. It was indeed a Wangster's paradise.

Before I continue my review, there is one thing I need to mention. The first day of this 6-day long Alexander Wang sample sale is for press & VIPs only. Therefore, I was asked not to take any pictures from inside the sale. But thanks to some intrepid fellow Mizhattanites who sent in some covert photos, I was able to complete this review with a handful of fantastic images. So a BIG thanks goes out to everyone who emailed me!

Now, let's go on with the review. If you're planning to brave the long wait and attend the sale tomorrow, here's what you should expect from the handbag section. A variety of Rocco duffles, Pelican satchels, Emile totes, Ingrid satchels, and small leather goods were available for bag lovers. When I was there, Alexander Wang's most coveted Roccos were only available in maple & brown. Prices on handbags were the same as last year. Clutches were $250, small bags were $300, mediums were $350, and large sizes were $400.

The shoe table was comprised of sandals, leather sneakers, platform pumps, knee-high boots, kitten heel sandals, and suede booties. Sizes were available from 35~41. While the selection of footwear was a bit disappointing, you'll be happy to know that everything in the shoe section was priced at $175. Definitely a deal and a must stop-by.

Finally, RTW. Grunge-inspired looks are making a big comeback for autumn. I found lots of edgy outfits you could wear to embrace this 90s trend. But for those feeling less-than-bold, there were also many understated designs and "wear-with-everything" office basics. To mention a few, I spotted black tailored blazers, long sleeve sweaters, button-down shirts, feather-weight knits, casual shorts, leather jackets, and black bustier tops. Prices on RTW differed depending on the category. Tops were $140 while bottoms were $150. Sweaters were priced $150, outerwear was $250, and dresses were $175. Unsurprisingly, items from the T by Alexander Wang line was priced lower. T-shirts were $35, sweaters & skirts were $70, bras were $35, and coats were $125. And speaking of affordable finds, plastic sample bins were also available. Frugal shoppers will be able to find $15 knits, $50 RTWs, and $100 leather combos.

If last November's Alexander Wang sample sale & today's madness are any sort of indicators, tomorrow's opening will be absolutely chaotic. I suggest getting there no later than 7am if you want to shop a better and wider selection. A die-hard Wangster should also drop by several times throughout the sale as further markdowns and additional inventory are expected.

Price list:
Women's RTW
Soft accessories $90
Tops (knit tanks, silk tanks, blouses) $140
Bottoms $150
Long sleeve sweaters $150
Blazers/Vests $175
Dresses $175
Bathing suits $100
Outerwear $250
Leather combo $100
Leather $500
Shoes $175

Handbags
Clutches $250
Small $300
Medium $350
Large $400
Small leather goods $90

T by Alexander Wang
Bra $35
T-shirts $35
Sweatshirts/hoodies $70
Cotton/Spandex dresses $60
Silk top $70
Knit tanks/Tops, Sweaters, Cardigans $70
Bottoms (pants, skirts, shorts) $70
Silk/Velvet dresses & rompers $90
Leather $130
Outerwear $125

Miscellaneous stock
Cut & sew/Knits $15
Woven $30
RTW $50
RTW leather combo $100