sample sale to the nth degree

So I've spent a few days in Los Angeles. I think that town should be renamed "Los An-jealous". I have no problem admitting that I'm slightly vain. I always joke that I'm not "judgemental", but simply "observant". In Southern California, image is everything. The food you eat isn't just to sustain you, but tells about the choices you make. The clothes you wear don't just cover your body, they declare your style and attention to detail. The places you go aren't merely spaces on a map, but highlight the lifestyle you associate with.

Focusing on image isn't always a bad thing. It helps you keep your "A game" at all times. And so, designers are always on their "A game" in the City of Angels. I went to a sample sale with a friend in the Cooper Building in the heart of the fashion district. I must say, it was absolute madness. Racks and racks and racks of Ella Moss, Splendid, and Splendid Mills were packed into the 8th floor open space warehouse. And there must have been at least 1,000 crazy ladies looking for a uniquely styled garment at a bargain price in just a few hours.

For those who have never been to a sample sale, most often you're not allowed to try clothes on. Prices depend on the type of garment. For example, tops would be one set price, sweaters and jackets another price, pants and shorts another price, and accessories and miscellaneous another. But at check out, you can always "convince" the cashier that an item may fit into a less expensive category.
While Alana and I were scouring the racks for cute, one-of-a-kind treasures, we definitely made the same comment at the same time. "I swear all of these people have their arms full of the ugliest things!" Right after I said this, a random woman looked up and started laughing. It's so true. Just because something is on sale does NOT mean you are obligated to buy it.

One crazy young woman had her arms FULL of clothes. So much so that she had all of her potential treasures strewn out on the floor, so she could separate what she really wanted to take home with her. Apparently she didn't notice all of the giant signs absolutely forbidding the trying on of garments, because she tried on a few items. Needless to say, the staff was NOT pleased, and promptly let her know of the violation.

After nearly an hour of waiting in line, we purchased our items and went on our merry way.

Fashion is alive. Fashion is intense. And fashion is always a good time.