Apr 9, 2014

*SAMPLE SALE* Into the Kirkwoods

For Nicholas Kirkwood, the sky is the limit when it comes to creating playful and sexed-up shoes. The Central Saint Martins graduate--who also trained and mentored the shoe designer of the moment: Sophia Webster--is one of the industry's most imaginative cobblers out there right now. His architectural shapes and quirky detailings make women's shoes the fashionable focal point of any look and I've been anxiously waiting for start date of the brand's sample sale ever since the dates were announced. So, join me and let's take a walk into the Kirkwoods.

Since today was the first day of Nicholas Kirkwood's inaugural NYC sample sale, I really didn't know what to expect. But as soon as I entered the showroom on the 4th floor of the Metropolitan Pavilion, the question marks all disappeared. From satin bow slingback sandals to colorful watersnake sandals to Kirkwood's signature sharp zigzags, the brand's fabulous footwear collection was neatly displayed on tables. Unlike Kirkwood's statement-making shoes, the ambiance inside this morning's VIP portion was very cool, calm, and collected. With only 10 shoppers leisurely browsing the offerings, I was able to get the full undivided attention from one of the company's employees which is a very rare opportunity at a designer shoe sample sale.

So first off, let's talk about sizes and inventory. Shoes were available in sizes 35 through 42 and there were approximately 20-30 pairs for each size. Prices were divided into 11 groups with color stickers differentiating each price group. Although there was a nice selection of smoking slippers, basic kitten heels, and python platform pumps priced $150 and $200, most items were $400 and above. And since Nicholas Kirkwood is better known for unconventional and elaborate details, chances are you'll most probably end up picking up something that's well above $400. For instance, a pair of fur trimmed cutout booties I spotted were $700. I also saw gold glitter sandals priced $650 and mesh slingback sandals priced $650.

As much as I've been anticipating the first-ever Nicholas Kirkwood sample sale, I left the venue less ecstatic than I thought I would. The selection was definitely impressive but the prices just didn't meet my expectations. Nonetheless, if you plan on checking out the sale, it's worth noting that there will not be any restocking.

Finally, I noticed there was absolutely no one waiting in line when I stepped outside. This was surprising considering it's a high-end designer shoe sample sale. Perhaps America isn't ready for NIcholas Kirkwood just yet? I have a feeling that'll change rather quickly now that LVMH has acquired the label.

9 comments:

  1. I went to the sale an hour ago, there was no line and only one other customer inside. I am a big fan of Nicholas Kirkwood, but found the selection and price point disappointing.

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  2. I stopped by this evening and agreed that most items were still expensive considering this is a sample sale. However I did pick up a pair of the coral suede scarpa camoscio pumps for only $100 and managed to pick up another pair for a friend as well. Really hoping they'll slash the prices on the final day....

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    Replies
    1. Nice! I will let you know if they reduce prices.

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  3. Replies
    1. I've been informed some of the shoes are reduced to $100.

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  4. Shoes from SS12 & FW12 are now buy 1 get 1 free! Sale ends at 8pm today (4/10).

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