A few weeks ago I was on my way to lunch with my friend Dianne when we saw a sign in front of an office park that read “Sample Sale.”
Needless to say, we stopped to take a look. What we found was Best Kept Secret, a store in Kirkland, WA that sells samples. Garment salespeople buy one of each item so they can show–and sell– to department stores and boutiques. Buying one of everything cuts into their profits. Best Kept Secret sells the one-offs at 15% above wholesale. The goods are consigned and when they sell, the salespeople recoup their costs. Best Kept Secret keeps the 15%.
Top: Best Kept Secret
Pants: YMI via Goodwill
Boots: Old Navy
Cuff: Greenbelts
Earrings: DIY
Cat: Petfinder
The store was huge so we took our time. I bought an olive-green cardigan, a plum drape-necked top with ruching, and a statement ring. I recently wore the top and I love it. It’s super soft and really comfortable.
The store includes a wide variety of styles and brands–from juniors to, well, seniors! They have men’s, women’s, and kids’ clothing, shoes, and accessories. Most women’s samples are in the size 6 range, but fit varies so if you’re between 4 and 10, take a look. You’ll find things that you’d see in Nordstrom and Macy’s, but for about half price.
Have you ever been to a sample sale?
jeanofalltrades 
I have not been to a sample sale, but am familiar with them and hope a chance to go to one soon!
I’d only ever been to a one-day sale at a pop-up shop or warehouse – never a permanent store. It’s fun but it takes time to go through the racks.
I’ve been to sample sales but I am either too tall or too big so don’t have much luck but it’s a good chance for me to pick up great accessories!
Good point! Accessories (scarves, earrings, purses, belts, bracelets, hats) are great for everyone!
I went to a huge clothing blowout sale and several racks had samples! There were no sizes marked so I had to guess and try them on. I found a cute pair of white crop pants with an original price tag of $159. – I’d NEVER pay that – I was thrilled to get them for $15. !!!
Nice to see Alice making an appearance in your photos 🙂
That’s a great deal. I love a bargain!
Yeah, Alice is so sweet. She follows the sound of my footsteps.