Take inventory
Prior to going to a sample sale it’s wise to check in your closet and make a quick list of what you have and what you don’t have. This way you have a good idea of exactly what you need to complete your wardrobe for the season and can avoid making one of the cardinal “sample sale” mistakes, purchasing something you don’t need, that doesn’t quite fit, or worst of all, something you don’t really like and only purchased because it was such a great deal.

Coat & Bag Check
Almost every sale, without exception, will require that you check your coat and bags (shopping, tote, etc.). Some sales will only allow you to carry your wallet requiring that you also check your handbag. Be prepared. Go to the sale with just your wallet. You might want to bring a clear plastic bag to carry your cell phone, wallet, etc. If you don’t have a coat and are only carrying your wallet you’ll likely be able to avoid the time sapping coat check lines.

Merchandise
What you should expect to find at a sample sale is merchandise from the current season, which means that it’s merchandise that is currently in the stores. Most designers schedule their sale events after the merchandise has been shipped to the stores and after the reorders have been filled. At that point they have a very good idea of the status of their inventory. Sometimes you’ll also find some of last season’s merchandise and, sometimes, even merchandise from last year.

The First day
This is usually the best opportunity to find the most sought-after pieces. Usually the best merchandise is put out on the floor on this inaugural day. You’ll also discover that it’s the most chaotic day, so remember to be patient.

If you want to be the first person in the door make sure to get there early. How early depends on the draw and notoriety of the designer. Be prepared to wait. There’ll usually be long lines to get in, to check your coat and bags, and ultimately to check out with your precious finds.

There are always those items that you’re not certain about so it’s always a good idea to ask one of the sales associates what their mark down policy is. This way you can make an educated decision about whether it’s worth the risk to hold off on purchasing the item. If there’s a chance that it’s going to be marked down it’s usually better to wait and check back on the mark down day to see if it’s still there, if it’s been marked down and by how much. If it’s still there and the price is right you’ll feel much better about your purchase.

The Last Day
If they have a policy of taking mark downs the last day is usually when the merchandise is marked down even further. This is your chance to get some of the most amazing bargains.

Try-ons
Do they permit try-ons? Is there a dressing room? If the listing of the event doesn’t so indicate, it would be wise to make a phone call. A simple phone call can save you hours of aggravation. If there’s no dressing room and you’re not modest than you shouldn’t have a problem stripping down to your thong in front of the security guard. If you do have an issue with modesty it would be wise to wear a pair of leggings. If they don’t permit try-ons at all it’s a good idea to go to your favorite department store and try on that particular designer’s merchandise to see what size works best for you.

Returns, Exchanges, Refunds
Always remember the policy is NO returns, NO exchanges and NO refunds at sample sales. This is the rule, but sometimes there are exceptions. So carefully inspect each item for flaws, tears, holes, stains, etc. Make sure (whenever possible) to try each item on to make sure it fits properly, even if you have the same item in different colors. A problem with the fit could be the reason the item is at the sample sale.

We all make mistakes so if you find yourself in that position go back to the sale and discreetly ask if you can speak to the manager. Remember it’s quite often the way in which you present your dilemma, so be sure to be nice. Admit that it’s your mistake and ask if there’s anything they can do for you. Sometimes, if you’re lucky they’ll cut you some slack and let you exchange your mistake for another item.