SAMPLE CIRCUIT: Strong Finish With Rag & Bone, J.Crew & Vente Privee

You know, the Sample Sale season never really ends anymore, but the schedule kind of drops off a cliff after this week, so this may be your last chance to shop all week long with some heavy hitters for a while. One of the reliable favorites, J.CREW, begins today, and though we have often remarked that those patient enough to keep an eye out for the J.Crew retail stores' 30% to 40% off sale prices (which happen with great frequency these days) can often score better prices on fresher goods than you can find at the sample sale, there remains a consistent draw which keeps shoppers lining up every season. We got a preview of the sale yesterday, and it remains much like sales of seasons past. his time, however, there is more room because it has been spread out over both of 260SampleSale's regular venues on Fifth Avenue. The women's, children's and Madewell goods are all at the regular 260 Fifth location through Sunday, while 225 Fifth a couple of blocks south (pictured above) has been commandeered for the men's section while supplies last —and what an imporovement it is, freeing up lots of room for easier shopping for everyone. The set-up is much the same. Each item is individually priced, yet the prices seem pretty consistent by category. For example, most tees are $15. Most sportcoats are $120, etc. Prices looked to be about 60% off the original retail prices, but, as usual, it's always good to familiarize oneself with current offerings in the stores or online so you can get the best gauge of what your savings will be and what is most current among the assortments. As always, this sale is heavy on actual samples, but also sprinkles in goods from current and previous seasons. Everything is sold as is, so check carefully for damages, especially since sometimes samples are not made with the same care as regular production items. anyway, this should keep shoppers busy for a while (have a preview look at some images in the gallery below), but there are a few other highlights to point out before the week ends:

As we posted last week, original flash site VENTE-PRIVEE is entering the live clearance sale game today at Clothingline. This one is billed as mostly women's products with a small selection of men's socks and underwear. We don't know what they have planned for all those leftover Kiton suits or Borelli shirts, but the ladies are promised selections from Vera Wang, Halston Heritage, Elizabeth & James, Catherine Malandrino, Sergio Rossi, Paul & Joe- plus several designers that they can't promote but, knowing the site's usual fare, are probably pretty good. Prices start at $15 for lingerie and top out at $125 for dresses and jackets. Since this is Vente-Privee's debut sale, we can't predict how it will turn out, but it looks promising and runs through Thursday the 26th.

This week's other major player is the always anticipated RAG & BONE sale beginning on Wednesday the 25th at its usual Chelsea Market location. This is another one that generates big lines. Savings usually run around 60% off original prices for men and women including clothing, shoes and accessories. Occasionally, shoppers have been able to enter on the preview day, so you may want to try your luck this afternoon if you want the best selections, though, traditionally, there is TONS of stuff at this sale, so it's usually worth a visit anytime during the run through the weekend.

Of course, that's not all. This week there are also worthwhile sales from, among others, BARBARA BUI, GRYSON, MIGUELINA and MATT BERNSON with a glamorous finale from REEM ACRA on Friday and Monday. Keep an eye on our SALE ROLL at left for details and any late-breaking events. Next week, there's not much to speak of so go to the beach. By now, you must have a thousand things to wear there. 

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
•