SAMPLE CIRCUIT: DVF & Opening Ceremony Anchor The Week In Sales

This may not be the busiest sale week, but there are just enough big names to make some room on the city's most serious shoppers' calendars. Today's big event comes from DIANE von FURSTENBERG (pictured at right) who is returning to 260 Fifth Avenue after a extended hiatus from the Sample Sale frenzy. Expect crowds who have been cultivating some pent-up demand since the last DVF sale a year ago. You can also expect a lot of merchandise, and since the sale will run straight through Sunday, patient shoppers might be able to take advantage of some potential further discounts closer to the weekend if you are patient. Here are a few more events worth making time for:

SHIPLEY & HALMOS has become an increasingly anticipated menswear sale over the past few seasons thanks to good prices if not always the deepest inventory. This week's installment should not disappoint. Look for the brand's Greene Street showroom on Thursday the 29th through Saturday the 31st.

Stay in SoHo on Thursday to check out the OVADIA & SONS sale in their showroom on Broadway. This 2-day sale offers both samples and regular stock, including the twin designers' full assortment of sportswear, tailored clothing accessories and particularly elegant shoes.

On Friday the 30th, the week ends with another of the season's most popular sales, OPENING CEREMONY. This time shoppers will find the 3-day sale on Mercer Street. Expect deep discounts on both the store's signature label and other designer brands from previous seasons. The selection can be on the random side, but bargains abound, often on the final day when prices are usually slashed further.

Keep an eye out for CHRISTOPHER FISCHER, CRUCIANI and EVA FRANCO sales as well. Details can be found at left on our SALE ROLL, and if last week is any indication, there will be more than a few late breaking additions. Next week, get ready for another big RALPH LAUREN luxury labels sale as well as ERNEST ALEXANDER's mens' accessories and the always popular NANETTE LEPORE.