Sample sale

Sample sales are events where fashion brands, designers, or manufacturers sell their samples, excess inventory, and sometimes previous season items at heavily discounted prices.

These samples could be prototypes used for fittings, runway shows, or photo shoots, or they might be pieces made specifically for buyers to view before placing wholesale orders. Sample sales often feature items at 50-80% off retail prices, but there's usually a catch - the sizes might be limited (often in standard model sizes like UK 8-10), items may have minor flaws, and sales are typically held in temporary locations with basic facilities and minimal fitting rooms. Traditionally, sample sales were insider events in fashion capitals like London, Paris, and New York, but many brands now host online sample sales to reach wider audiences. Some department stores also host their own sample sale events.