Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.
Unlike past events, no photos were allowed at A.L.C.'s annual sample sale, which kicked off at noon in DTLA. We swung by the scene shortly before doors opened and spotted bountiful Felicity-worthy sweaters, fall knits, luxe leather bags, and much more, all priced at $150 and under. In other words, head out to that "doctor's appointment" you totally "forgot" right now if you haven't left the office already.
The sale's happening until 5pm and tomorrow from 10am to 3pm; we've rounded up all the important deets you need to know below.
What you see when you first exit the elevator.
1. The sale isn't at the Cooper Building. It's happening at 818 S Broadway (just a few doors down from Urban Outfitters) in the mezzanine; take the elevator one floor up from the ground level and you'll be greeted by two clearly-marked double doors.
2. Nothing is over $150. Although we can't divulge the full price list, we can confirm that markdowns range from $15 for basic tees to $40 for dresses to $80 for small bags.
3. The space is much smaller than past sales. Which also means a smaller (but still incredibly generous) selection. A table of clutches and handbags will greet you when you walk in, followed by several tables and bins stacked with sweaters and knit jackets. Continue past the sweaters and you'll see about a dozen racks of apparel.
4. Expect merch from as recent as pre-fall 2015—but not many leather jackets. On top of the pre-fall 2015 collection (we spotted several of these Wednesday Addams-esque dresses and these black trenches), expect to find "hidden gems," sweaters, knit tops, dresses, skirts, silk tops, shirting, and outerwear from as far back as 2012.
We also noticed tons of sheer bodycon dresses and similar styles in black and white from fall 2013 (like the one above); a handful of flowy and pleated skirts, crop tops, jumpsuits, and carryalls from spring 2014; a few "Tribe" sweaters, printed dresses, small leather cross-body bags and large satchels in nude, red, and black from fall 2014 (pictured in the main image); and some floral pieces from summer 2015, to name a few.
5. Inventory will be replenished. However, staff tells us it won't be a major re-stock, but do expect a hefty dose of additions.
6. There are no changing rooms. There's one mirror for try-ons in the corner of the clothing section.
7. Credit cards are accepted. Spend away!