Appendix to the Article: “Look Great AND Help the Environment: A Sample Sale for the Whole Family!”

Here are some great tips for making the most out of sample sales, courtesy of Amy Lowry, Co-founder of ILoveSampleSales.com.

1. Go early if you can – but even when you can’t, you should still go because as with many sales, new stock is put out daily

2. Wear a long snug-fitting tank top as sometimes the change rooms are shared – you can wear this under clothes as you try them on

3. Sometimes there are a few sales on the same day so wear comfy shoes so you can visit them all

4. It’s better not to plan on buying any specific type of item (i.e. jeans), it’s best to go and see what’s available as you may be surprised at what you find for yourself or someone else – you never know when you might find the perfect gift for someone you know

5. Even if something is not your size, try it on! Sizing varies greatly from brand to brand. On that note, it’s actually important to try items on because sometimes the size noted on the sample is inaccurate

6. Take your time as you look through the racks, you never know when an amazing item will be found amidst a rack of things you aren’t interested in

7. It’s a great opportunity to try brands you’ve never tried before – you might find some new favorites

8. A lot of sample sales are held during the week (not on weekends). If a few agencies are having sales on the same day, it’s worth taking a day off work, so plan to take a day off in November and in April

9. All types of items are sold at sample sales: accessories, shoes, women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, sunglasses, snowboard boots and bindings and a lot more

10. Since you’re getting a great deal, sample sales are a great time to get those unique pieces that are missing from your wardrobe. If an item was discontinued or not sold locally, you may be the only person in the city who has it!

11. If you love an item but it doesn’t fit perfectly, since you are getting a great deal, consider having it altered

12. Not all samples go into production. Some might be great for all or part of a Halloween costume – think fashion trends: 80s rocker, cowboy or even pirate…