Above the Fray: Claustrophobia at Charlotte Ronson

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Charlotte Ronson's sample sale, which kicked off today near Bryant Park, takes place in a room that feels sort of like a small thrift shop, and sort of like a stuffed walk-in closet. Although the space was not super-crowded, it certainly felt it. While the selection didn't thrill us (there was a lot of similar prints and cuts, almost entirely in small sizes), the prices were more than reasonable. Some sweaters and tops were as low as $15, rising to $120 for pea coats and nicer sweaters.

Ronson's fall floral print was everywhere—on cap sleeve tees, ruffled dresses and tops, and zippered skirts. We found a small range of pants and some very cute cowl neck sweaters with random zipper details (sweaters in general were going for either $50 or $70). There were also some very cute knit and leather skirts. One thing shoppers were not snagging: Plaid shirts, which piled up on the $50 rack. We spotted only a few silk lace and sequined black lingerie tops and sequin-embellished skirts. As for the shoe selection, it wasn't great—mostly heeled suede boots and random pumps—but it was fairly affordable: Prices fell into the same range as the clothing. It's a busy week for sample sales, so if you're looking for one to skip, this might be it—but then again, die-hard fans of the brand won't be disappointed with what they find here.—Lauren Frankfort
· Dealfeed: Charlotte Ronson