As you're finalizing your Memorial Day plans, retailers are beginning to start their seasonal clearance. As always, we will be starting our markdown roundups. First up, are the department stores.
Department stores are often the first sign of sale season. It's generally taboo for a brand-owned store to begin a sale before the department stores. After all, a department store has to buy their inventory for a wholesale markup while a brand-owned boutique keeps the extra profit from a straight-to-retail model.
Chanel and Louboutin will not be marked down at any department store or boutique until the beginning of June. Nonetheless, it's never too early to plot your purchases and share your acquisition wishes with a good sales person. Second markdown usually begins at the end of June and discounts usually range from 50% to 70% off.
For now, we have a roundup of first markdowns at our favorite department stores.
Barneys Pre-sale at Barneys started today. Most designer collections and shoes are discounted 35% off. The official sale starts May 30th. We are especially drawn to the peplum blouses that seem to be abundant throughout the store. Our favorites include a crisp white Celine cotton blouse and a bright silk Thakoon print.
Contact: Kyri 212-833-2088
Bergdorf GoodmanWednesday will be the first day of pre-sale at Bergdorf. The discount is 30% off shoes and 40% off clothing. Purchases will be shipped or available in the store on Sunday, May 27. We always crush for Balmain leather-antyhing but it might take us an additional discount before we jump on this season's biker jacket.
Contact: Allison: 212-872-8732
Saks Fifth AvenuePre-sale orders will begin Wednesday and merchandise will be available to be picked up or shipped on May 31. Shoes will start at a 30% discount while clothing will be discounted 40%. Most designer merchandise is included. We always appreciate the Vionnet collation at Saks, although we believe it could be a bit larger.
Contact: Fifth Avenue Club (Eric) 212-753-4000