Above the Fray: Handbag Mania Inside Botkier

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After enduring an hour-long wait and a significant drop in temperature, we were ready to explore the Botkier sample sale's bags, wallets and shoes at 50% to 75% off. The bags are the clearly the main draw at this sale, and shoppers were flagrantly flaunting the "no holding more than 3 bags at a time" rule.

Bags are located in both sections of the sale and prices are listed on charts posted on the walls. As mentioned in the line blog—larger bags and totes run $225 to $295, medium sized handbags and clutches $125 to $175 and smaller clutches and evening bags $25 to $100. Popular items included the uber soft Uma satchel for $275 (originally $595) and the fringed Taylor satchels and crossbody for $250 (originally $525 to $595). The sexy black leather Jetson hobo, with a metal eyelet lined flap, is an eyecatcher, discounted to $275 from $675. There were plenty of the larger bags on the tables, but you have to dig around for the smaller bags and clutches. There also is a pretty ravaged table of mostly sample and damaged bags in the second section of the sale. The pouches ranged from $25 to $50; larger handbags, from $100 to $200.

Shoes and boots are in a relatively quiet and orderly section near the entrance. Summery flat sandals start at $50 and go up to $150 for platform sandals. More season-appropriate footwear include two styles of booties for $250 and a selection of taller boots for $295. We were disappointed to find out that the $50 Nikki fringed black booties were already sold out. There is also a sitting area to try on shoes, but the chairs were mostly occupied by shoppers inspecting their bag booty. The leather wallets (ranging from $75 to $95) are located in the second section behind a staffed counter.

At times, matching the bag in hand to the one in the photo array was a bit difficult —it was a common sight to see shoppers squinting at the charts (at least we know it wasn't just us). Also, some items pictured, like the Marcel satchel, are not available, so when in doubt, ask a helpful and knowledgeable staffer. They are replenishing the floor regularly and trying to even out the stock on hand. Shoppers were definitely taking their time assessing what to purchase and the checkout line took forever, therefore making the wait outside long, too. Definitely set aside time if you decide to go, and don't forget to wear your Botkier bag and/or boots for an extra 10% off.
·Lineblogging: the View from the Botkier Queue [Racked]
·Lineblogging: Botkier Brings 'Em Out [Racked]
·Dealfeed: Botkier [Racked]