Sample Sale Report: Nicole Miller

UPDATE 3/29/13:
Don't you love when a great sample sale gets even better? There have been additional price reductions to the already amazing prices! I am planning on going back after work! New prices are as below:
Bridal Long Gowns: $300, Bridal Accessories $15
One of a Kind Items: Bridal $80, Pants/Skirts/Shorts $30, Tops $20, Short Dresses $40, Long Dresses $50, Jackets $30

Happy Easter
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I stopped by the first ever Nicole Miller sample sale after work today and it was only moderately busy. There was plenty of space to navigate through the aisles and everything was neatly organized into type of item and by size. Sizes from what I could tell ranged from a 0 to a 16. There seemed to be a fairly good selection in just about every size. Keep in mind that you'll have to check in any bags, coats and even your purse at this sale. Make sure that you hold on to your wallet.


Prices were pretty darn exceptional, especially if you are a bride-to-be. Seriously rack upon rack of beautiful silk wedding dresses for just $350! If you're lucky enough to find a sample dress, you can score a wedding dress for just $100! Sample sizes are made for models and in this case vary anywhere from a size 0 to a size 6.  Sample dresses have a few pulled strings, some have a few smudges but for most part are in great shape. With prices this low, even though I already have my wedding dress, I couldn't resist snagging another...I'm contemplating dyeing it blush and wearing it for the rehearsal dinner. While I felt a little bit indulgent getting a second dress, for $100 I'm not sure I would have found a dress nearly this pretty. I overheard other brides planning on buying not one, not two but three dresses to wear on their big day!

Dupli-CAUGHT: Funktional vs. Blaque Label

Remember this dress from last fall? It's my coveted Funktional cage dress. I bought mine last fall, and since then Funktional has done a few twists on successful dress - one shoulder, satin, blue.

And now someone else has jumped on the cage dress. While browsing the sale pages of KarmaLoop, I came across this copy from Blaque Label. It's extremely similar. The most notable difference is the exposed zipper in the back that runs from top to bottom, ick!

Blaque Label also made a shirt version as seen below, but I like Funktional's cage top better for it's relaxed body which would pair nicely with skinny jeans.

I know a lot of ladies were bummed when the Funktional dress sold out, so perhaps this could be a solution. Personally, I don't think I could do it. I know who made the original; she's a young designer. And did I mention the tacky exposed zipper?

Menswear Note from Jeff:

If your a guy looking to sport the caged look - Adidas has you covered. Jeremy Scott for Adidas came out with a caged track jacket for those looking for a bit a flair for their workout gear. It's not really a practical piece for working out but since we're on the topic of cages I thought why not. I'm not crazy about the laces running down the back but to each his own.

Deal of the Day: Funktional One Shoulder Cage Dress

This dress is similar to the original Funktional cage dress, which I bought almost a year ago, except that it is a one shoulder piece and shiny rather than matte. I love my Funktional dress. My only complaint is that being 3-dimensional, it takes up a bit of closet space.

This hot little black dress usually retails for $118, but it is now half off at revolveclothing.com, a steal at $59. Sizes are limited, so hurry.

If you're open to paying retail, they are full stocked in all sizes at shoprumor.com.

Spot Check: Costello Tagliapietra x Uniqlo

I stopped by Uniqlo a couple nights ago and noticed that Costello Tagliapietra for Uniqlo as we mentioned a couple weeks ago is not only back in stock but readily available in select styles. I snapped a few pics of the styles that are still in store.

To note not only is this collection comfortable, it is also super work wearable. Whenever I am running late and don't know what to wear I throw on one of these dresses and end up getting compliments all day long! These dresses are already a bargain but right now Uniqlo has special pricing that makes them $19.50-29.50!

If you haven't picked up one of these dresses yet, go now already!

iLike: Funktional Zip Prairie Cutout Dress

Awhile back when Erin and I had the chance to preview Funktional's upcoming collection, and I fell in love with the silk prairie dress. It was so feminine with the open back and flowly fabric, but the black zipper and cutout shoulders made this dress fresh and edgey.
And now, the dress is now available for purchase! You can find it at Revolve Clothing and Nasty Gal for $118.

Gilt Wedding Weekend

Amsale Satin Strapless Ruched Bust Bridesmaid Gown: Original Retail: $330, Gilt: $165

Gilt Groupe, online sample sale purveyor extraordinaire has partnered in collaboration with Martha Stewart Weddings to bring you a Wedding Weekend Event from March 12-14, 2010.

Darcy Miller, the editorial director of Martha Stewart Weddings, has helped curate her favorite picks from from designers like Caroline Herrera, Vera Wang Lavender Label, Thread, Temperly London, Judith Leiber, Tara Pearls, Lu Lu Frost and Tutu Couture. The sale will include bridal gowns, bridesmaids’ dresses, wedding gifts and more.

In Gilt fashion everything is up to 70% off retail. Everything aside from the Sergio Rossi Shoes is set to hit tomorrow...so if you or a friend is gearing up for a wedding make sure that you hit up this sale online! I think that you should be able to find something amazing! Actually, if you were looking for a simple wedding dress, I think the above Amsale bridesmaid dress would do nicely and at just $165, how amazing would that be?

AmsaleTaffeta Strapless Bridesmaid dress: Original Retail: $290, Gilt: $145


Gown by Carolina Herrera #1, includes an overlay: Original Retail: $5790, Gilt: $1999


Gown by Carolina Herrera #2: Original Retail: $4990, Gilt: $1599

Sergio Rossi Shoes (on sale 3/17) - Original Retail: $770, Gilt: $128

Thread Made to Order: Silk Faille Strapless Notched Bust Liddy Dress: Original Retail: $305, Gilt: $228.75

NY Sample Sale Report: Amanda Uprichard

Stopped by the Amanda Uprichard sale over lunch and can I tell you that the prices are amazing? Silk dresses for unbeatable prices. Everything is priced to go and go quickly so I recommend running over as soon as you have a free moment. Not only is everything under $40 but the more you buy the more likely you will have a chance to be offered an additional discount at the cash. The lovely lady at the cash says everything is negotiable so the listed prices are only the starting point to already deep discounts that are seriously up to 90% off. Even if your bartering skills aren't the best, if you are buying multiple items and paying cash, you'll likely be offered a discount to start! This is the lowest prices that I've seen her merch, you can compare to last time around.

The sale wasn’t too crowded with about 10 or so other browsers in the 8-10 racks of merch and 2 boxes but be warned as there are no fitting rooms and only one mirror. I would recommend wearing a tank top and leggings and bringing a friend as the mirror was often blocked by fellow shoppers.Sizes range from P to L but have some degree of variance so try sizing up or down depending on the style.

Plenty of leopard, plaid and lovely florals in flattering silk tunics, blouses, jumpsuits and dresses. If you are a fan of silk or in need of some dresses this is your sale! So go now and show some blog love by mentioning us when you check out :)
Based on season the listed prices are:
2009
Silk Dress $40
Silk Tops $30
Jersey Dresses $30
Jersey Tops $20

2008
Silk Dress $30
Silk Tops $20
Jersey Dresses $20
Jersey Tops $15

2007
Silk Dress $20
Silk Tops $10
Jersey Dresses $15
Jersey Tops $10
Who: Amanda Uprichard
Midtown When/Where: Midtown, February 24-26, 2010 10am-6pm. 226 W 37th St (b/n Seventh and Eighth Ave), 3rd floor (212-719-0320)
Downtown When/Where: Downtown, February 27-28, noon-8pm. 5 Rivington St (b/n Bowery and Christie St) (212-925-2557)

Question of the Week: Styling Rodarte for Target

"I picked up the lace cardigan from Rodarte for Target in tan, and I don't know how to wear it! Should I keep it or return? Help!"
- Jun, California
Let me start by saying I'm so jealous of your cardigan! I was in Vietnam when Rodarte for Target went on sale. I wanted to buy one in yellow online, but by the time I logged on they were already sold out. So please, don't return it. It's a cardigan, so it's an easy piece to incorporate into your wardrobe. Wear it and love it!

I know this photo was just to show how the cardigan fits on you, but I think this outfit could work. I would maybe wear some cream or lighter colored tights to balance out the top; right now it's a little black-heavy on bottom.

The cardigan would look great over a simple, fitted dress. Something voluminous could look frumpy and granny when paired with the lace. I would also avoid dresses and tops with short or 3/4 sleeves because they will create distracting lines under the cardigan.

While it's still chilly out, consider long sleeve dresses like this one, and pair with thick tights or leggings for warmth.

Forever 21 Black Knit Dress Refined, $24.80
Another reason why you shouldn't return the cardigan, nudes and buff tones are going to be hot this spring! You can do up the standstorm trend with khaki or gray colored dress. The cardigan would also look sweet with a light blue.

Brodie Strapless Chambray Dress, $58.00
As for accessorizing, a bow belt like the one in the top photo from the Rodarte Target lookbook would be adorable. I'm not a big fan of leopard and lace, so if it were me, I would probably go with a monotone belt like the ones below. I like the patent for a little polish and the straw one for a more casual earthy look.

Spiegel Bow Tie Belt, $29.00

Wet Seal Straw Waist Bow Belt, $10.50
Readers, what do you think? Do you have any other suggestions for Jun?

Question of the Week: Dressing for a Winter Ball

"I have a question about dressing for a formal ball. Can wear an above-the-knee dress? I'm debating between a body-fitting black dress with a sweetheart neckline and a bright fuchsia tube dress with ruching on the front and a tier right above the waistline.

And how would I dress up my outfit and accessorize on a budget? I want to be more fashionable and different from other people."
- May, New York

It's hard for me to tell you whether or not an above-the-knee dress would be appropriate for this ball since formal could mean a lot of things. I would check with friends who are going.

For formal events and dressing in general, keep balance in mind. If the dress is snug, make sure it covers enough leg, skin, and the other way around, if the dress is short, then it should be voluminous. Covering your legs with tights can help keep your look classy. And covering your shoulders with a faux fur capelet or shawl will give your look some glam!

If you're looking to stand out, I would suggest playing with funky shoes, statement necklaces and patterned tights. And to avoid overkill, do not wear all three at the same time.

Funky shoes

Jeffrey Campbell Michelle, $119.95
& N.Y.L.A. Slinger Bootie, $119

Statement necklaces

Express Twisted Chain Bauble Necklace, $39.50
Forever21 Reflective Shard Necklace, $10.80

Patterned tights

Urban Outfitters Tuscan Floral Tights, $14
& Pamela Mann Duo Tone Tights*, $13.30
*For a formal event, I would go for these tights in black and white. You'll look Chanel-inspired chic!

If you go with the body con black dress, I think a bib or statement necklace would be really cute. If you want the focal point of your look to be the dress and sweetheart neckline rather than your jewelry, you could wear a simple pendant. And you can finish your look with some fun shoes or tights.

If you do the bright fuchsia dress, you could also do statement jewelry, but if the dress is like what I'm picturing, then it may be overkill with the bright color and ruching, and a simpler or more basic necklace like pearls or slim chain might be a better option. And again, simplicity with the shoes and tights to complement a busy, bright dress.

Readers, what do you think? Do you have any other suggestions for May?