This defines the sample-sale mentality: I step off the elevator for TSE, the cashmere mecca, walk up to a couple who are whispering intently to each other, and announce that I'm researching sample-sale tips (beyond the basics of "arrive early" and "wear good underwear"). "Don't tell her, don't tell her," the woman hisses to the man. "I'm not kidding," she threatens. Sample sales are addictive, inconvenient, and often humiliating. I love them.
Tip one: Expect nothing. Every man for himself and God against all. The only time people will give you information about a sale is when they are staggering away with a garbage bag full of bargains.
Tip two: Never let them see you want it. If someone is about to drop a perfect pink sweater and sees your look of glee--dollars to doughnuts they'll change their mind. Instead, appear vaguely interested in another item. Once the sweater has been decisively abandoned, move in.
Tip three: A moment of reconnoitering can save precious time as prime pieces vanish. At the last Dosa sale everyone rushed in and started pawing the tables in the front of the room. I took a second to look around and spotted a rack in the corner with the very silk skirts I was after.
Tip four: Don't hesitate. Just take stuff and move on. Speed and reflexes are key. I operate on a color/fabric radar: I don't care if it's a shirt, a skirt, or hot pants in a size 4. Later, hunched in a corner like a wolf defending my litter, I'll look at my finds and decide what to purchase.
Tip five: Don't be afraid to buy in bulk, especially if an item combines style and utility. Luxury versions of ordinary things--cashmere socks, black T-shirts--last longer and look and feel better.
Tip six: Sometimes what seems like worthless frivolity is the best investment: the gossamer silver evening bag, the long gray suede gloves, the pastel silk mousseline scarf. If they are things of beauty (and the price is right) you may use them with great satisfaction, as they are elegant idiosyncrasies.
Good shopping, and keep me in mind if you spot any fabulous shoes out there. I'm a 6 1/2.
—Claudia Shear
• S&B Report 877/579-0222; www.lazarshopping.com; one-year subscription $59. The most complete monthly guide to New York sample sales. Devoted shoppers can sign up for the black-belt subscription ($124), which provides weekly updates. If you can't make it to the city, S&B conducts two or three sales a week on its Web site. Visitors to New York can order a single issue for $9.95.
• www.salesandbargains.com The site is known for crashing computers, but it's a good source for sales in cities across the country.
• The Bargain Hotline 212/540-0123; $1.95 per minute, 75 cents each additional minute. Available only to callers in the New York area.
• Media Check the shopping columns of Time Out New York, New York magazine, and the New York Post for regular scoops.
