With the year winding down and samples sales is in its last hurrah for 2015, we thought it would be helpful to share some bits of wisdom on sample sale etiquette, so here we go!
- Hoarding – Hoarding anything can make life dysfunctional; whether it be beanie babies, troll dolls, cast iron cookware, or even cats! However, hoarding shoes at sample sale should be in its own category. There have been many occasions when zealous shoppers are seen hoarding massive piles of shoes. (Seriously, some sale organizers need to put a limit on how many shoes one can buy at these sales). Not only is this not fair to other shoppers who may walk out empty handed, but it also creates a hostile environment. It’s for this reason and many more why some high fashion companies will continue to keep their sample sales exclusive.
- Cutting the line – Waiting in line to get into a popular sale is the norm, but what’s not ok is waiting in line for a long time and see some line cutters nonchalantly try to blend in. Thankfully this kind of behavior rarely goes unnoticed, and those already waiting in line will be quick to let security know what is going on. Similar to hoarding, cutting the line is not fair to other shoppers. If you really need to get into the sale; then hire a line sitter or get there earlier.
- Lying to get in – Ok, so you want to get into an extremely exclusive samples sale, let’s say Christian Louboutin, but sorry to break to you honey. You are not going to get in if A) your full name is not on the list, B) you were not invited, or C) you’re not Blake Lively. Not only is it embarrassing to be turned away, you’ll walk the walk of shame as those with invites snicker and roll their eyes. Save yourself the grief and shop at Barneys or Saks during their seasonal sales.
- Be on time – There is an old adage that states “The early bird gets the early worm,” and the same holds true for samples sales. Some samples sales are time specific and will ask that you call in advance to book in an appointment to shop. Others will give you ticket with a number or letter on it and you will be allowed to shop when your group has been called, and some will give you a certain day to shop based on the first letter of your last name (oh, yes that has happened). Whatever the rules are be sure to follow them, and be on time; otherwise you could miss out on an opportunity to splurge.
- Being nasty (shopperzilla) – A shopperzilla is someone who encompasses all the traits that were mentioned above. They hoard, will stalk you for your finds, are arrogant, and worst of all is competitive. No one wants to be around a shopperzilla. A sample sale is not a race. I repeat. A sample sale is not a race. Samples sales are supposed to be enjoyable not a competitive sport. If you know you are not going to buy something then let someone else who’s interested have it. After all, a little kindness goes a long way.
