Cheap Couture: Designer Labels for Less

by Keith Wagstaff - Citysearch Editor - 216 Reviews - 112 Lists

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Updated: September 16, 2009

You love haute couture, but you’re not into the whole vintage thing. Well, there are other ways for frugal fashion types to get their hands on designer duds. We take a look at five shops that sell everything from last season’s goods to department store overstock so you can get a great deal on some of New York City’s chicest clothes. (Photo: Paul Smith)

Discount Designer Duds

  1. 1 A.P.C. Surplus
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    33 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211 (map)

    The subtly chic French fashions of A.P.C. are coveted by fashion-conscious New Yorkers of both sexes--even those without trust funds. Near the Williamsburg waterfront, this surplus store sells past-seasons’ styles for up to 60 percent off, including outerwear, accessories and all other types of clothing (except for jeans, which are full price).

  2. 2 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Gabay's Outlet
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    225 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003 (map)

    Overstock--has there ever been a word sweeter to the ears of the thrifty fashionista? This longstanding East Village shop sells what other stores, including Bergdorf Goodman and small boutiques from all over the country, want to get rid of. That means everything from shoes and handbags to clothing and sunglasses from top designers such as Chanel, Etro, Chloe and more are all available at rock-bottom prices. Fair warning: the shop can be a bit cramped and difficult to navigate, but hey, nobody said bargain hunting was easy.

  3. 3 Steven Alan Outpost
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    465 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024 (map)

    There is an art to making clothes that look both refined and casual, and Steven Alan does it better than most; unfortunately, that kind of talent usually costs a pretty penny. This Upper West Side location, however, sells the label’s comfy button-downs and other casual classics for 20 to 80 percent off, so you can relax knowing your shirt is made with the finest cotton and your wallet still has some cash in it.

  4. 4 Paul Smith
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    280 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211 (map)

    Yes, dapper men all over the city are rushing to pull off the Don Draper look, but style like that doesn’t come cheap. Or does it? Here in Williamsburg, quirky English designer Paul Smith sells his finely tailored, retro-chic business clothes for about half of their normal sale price. Don’t worry ladies, the store sells a small collection of swoon-worthy women’s clothing as well.

  5. 5 1 Star Rating: Poor Marc Jacobs
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    385 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014 (map)

    No, it’s not an outlet or discount store of any kind. It’s a place where fashion god Marc Jacobs sells ridiculously cute accessories for surprisingly affordable prices. Warm your hands with $3 gloves, wrap your neck in a $20 scarf or pick up a $10 necklace, all with the signature MJ charm but without the astronomical prices. The only challenge is squeezing past the perpetual crowd of designer-crazed tourists.