Shopaholic Soiree: The Gilt City Warehouse Sale is Coming

Hope you didn’t do too much internet shopping on your snow day today, because the Gilt City DC Warehouse Sale is coming next weekend, and you’ll be so outta luck if you spent last month’s paycheck on anything other than a designer brand’s fashions at up to 90% off.  

Gilt’s top offerings — from men’s and women’s fashion to home accessories, kids goods and more — are snag-able at this once-a-year download (1)warehouse sale, coming to DC March 8th at Longview Gallery.

In advance of the sale, we caught up with Gilt DC City Curator Marissa Schneider to give us the goods on this year’s stock, best specials, and the ultimate tips on how to shop:

KSM: Ok, so why is this sale so special?  Give us an idea of the biggest scores from last year… and do we have to be first in line to actually get that one featured designer item?

MS: I’ve seen people get gorgeous Zac Posen dresses, Brian Atwood clutches, Missoni knits, and so much more! We refresh the inventory after each session, so people get access to amazing items no matter what time of day they shop the sale.

KM:  Sounds good to us!  But… there are a few of these sales locally for women, but this one has great finds for MEN.  What should they be looking for?

MS: The designer shoe section is awesome, there are gorgeous jackets and sport coats, suiting, dress shirts, sportswear, ties, and tees. And I do encourage the guys to peruse the accessories table – there are basics like white v-necks, but also watches, cufflinks, and designer sunglasses.

KSM:  How is it determined what products come to the DC sale?  Is there anything DC buyers should know about the opportunity that makes it unique in THIS market? 

MS: This is truly the only designer sale with an array of merchandise up to 90% off retail prices in the DC area. The unique high-end and contemporary mix of men’s, women’s and children’s items sets it apart from any other event. The experience is enriched further with partners like Dark Horse Wines, New Amsterdam vodka, and KIND bars all being served throughout the event. We also have a partnership with local drycleaner and alterations team, The Press, who will be present to offer alternations suggestions and advice to inquiring customers.

KSM: Noted!  So, do you have any personal tips for how to best shop the sale?

MS: No cash! Shoppers should bring credit card(s), ID, and I suggest leaving the large handbags at home since we require handbag and coat check at the door. A crossbody bag or small wristlet allows for keeping your personal belongings close while still having two free hands to shop the racks and tables.

Dress in layers – wearing skinny jeans and a fitted tee or tank top underneath clothes allows shoppers to try on sweaters, jackets, and other items easily. There is a fitting room area, but the line can be long, taking up precious shopping time during the session.

Prioritize your shopping list and head for special sections first. If you’re on the hunt for a handbag, go directly to the bags first. While we do replenish the merchandise after each session, some items are one-of-a-kind finds, and you don’t want to miss out!