Shopping the Sample Sales in LA’s Fashion District

Hilary

6 years ago

Hilarystyle is about travel, fashion and fun, but I admit it’s been awhile since I’ve written about fashion. Truth be told it’s hard to think about a change in wardrobe when here in LA it hardly seems like we ever have a change in seasons. Not that I’m complaining about what feels like perpetual summer.

Late October in Los Angeles feels just like summer!

Recently I had a chance to visit the sample sales in LA’s fashion District and I’m hoping I’ll have a chance to get some use out of the more wintery items I picked up during my upcoming visit to England.

What is a Sample Sale?

Sample sales are a way for fashion brands to unload excess merchandise and make room for the upcomning season. You’ll find current season items including accessories and apparel all for very reduced prices. During my recent visit I picked up items for everyone in my family.

Some showrooms feature multiple fashion brands

Where can I find a Sample Sale?

Designer showrooms are located at 9th and Los Angeles Street in Downtown LA’s Fashion District.

Ted Baker has a showroom in the Cooper Design Space Building

The Fashion District is home to over 1,200 showrooms, which represent over 4,500 fashion lines. WOW, that’s a lot of shopping!

You’ll find a large majority of those 1,200 showrooms inside The Cooper Design Space building right in the heart of the Fashion District.

When Can I shop?

Sample sales are usually held on the last Friday of the month.

Not every showroom hosts a sale every last Friday, but many do, and its fun to go from floor to floor poking in and out of the different showrooms. Look for the boards in the lobby listing which showrooms are having a sale, and where they’re located.

What if I’m not there on the Last Friday?

Many brands will hold additional sample or warehouse sales throughout the year, so make sure to add your name to their showroom email list, and you’ll be notified of when and where.

How Do I Pay?

Not all of the showrooms accept credit, so make sure to bring plenty of cash.

Can I try stuff on?

For the most part Showrooms aren’t set up with dressing rooms, but many allow you to try items on over what you’re already wearing, or if you want you can find a spot off to the side and do a quick change… I wore a dress when I visited, which made trying on a little easier.

My shopping haul:

27miles Malibu

Rebel Heart Cashmere Sweater

Retail Price: $275
Sample sale Price: $100

Rhinestone Skull Cashmere Sweater

Retail Price: $275
Sample sale Price: $100

Nation

Echo Park Hoody Sweatshirt

Retail Price: $147
Sample sale Price: $30

Aviator Nation

Long Sleeve Thermal Shirt

Retail Price: $79
Sample sale Price: $20

Short Sleeve T-shirt

Retail Price: $79
Sample sale Price: $20

Duck and Weave Co.

Button Down

Retail Price: $185
Sample sale Price: $20

This shirt goes perfectly with my wellies!

Stance

Kids Socks

Retail Price: $10 – $18
Sample sale Price: $5 ea

Kids Underwear

Retail Price: $18
Sample sale Price: $5 ea

AG Jeans

Men’s jeans

Retail Price: $245
Sample sale Price: $120

I’m hungry after all that shopping Is there food nearby?

Downtown Los Angeles is one of my favorite places to explore. There are endless options for fun and food! Here’s a list of some of our favorite spots:

Birdies, is well known in LA for their donuts and their fried chicken, so consider trying both! The donuts are baked fresh every two hours. Since you saved all that money at the sample sale you might consider trying the gold donut… it’s only $100!

Gold leaf donut a mere $100

Bottega Louie, is known for it’s colorful and photogenic macarons, but it isn’t just about the sweets and treats, it’s also a full service restaurant with a full bar and a gourmet market.

Kazu Nori is small and it’s popular, so get there early, or be prepared to wait. The menu consists of one thing: hand rolls. They’re made to order and to delicious perfection.

The Grand Central Market is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and no matter their food tastes you’ll find something for everyone in your group. From Thai sticky rice to cheesecake, whisky and cheese, a Jewish deli, vegan choices, coffee, Chinese food, green grocers and so much more. There’s even a PB&J shop!

Salt and Straw’s ice cream is delicious, but don’t take my word for it, the ever present line should speak for itself. One reason the line is so long… you can sample as many flavors as you want!

Salted Malted Cookie Dough

Pie Hole offers up a variety of fun pie flavors both savory and sweet, so no matter your tastes you’ll be guaranteed a unique and tasty treat! I wish I could show you a photo of the pie, but it never lasts long enough to take a photo!

Wurst Kuche’s exotic sausages and delicious fries are a savory and popular treat. There is a constant line out the door, but don’t be fooled you’ll find a large amount of communal seating in the back.

Little Damage is a family owned soft serve ice cream shop in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. With trendy black cones and unique flavor choices, Little Damage, is not your average ice cream… its ice cream with a Goth twist!