Word to the Wise: NYC Sample Sales!

Alessi
50% to 70% off housewares and kitchen tools, including discontinued items, irregulars, and floor samples
When/Where: Through Wednesday, February 29. Mon—Sat 11am—6pm, Sun noon—6pm. Upper East Side: 30 E. 60th St at Madison Ave (212-317-9880.) Soho: 130 Greene St at Prince St (212-941-7300.)

Alessi Bottle opener, normally $68

Max Mara
Tops are $59, sweaters are $99, pants and skirts are $79, blazers and dresses are $129, and outerwear is $299. Cash and credit are both accepted.
When/Where: Tuesday, February 28 through Thursday, March 1. Tue—Thur 10am—6pm. 381 Fifth Ave between 35th and 36th Sts, second floor (212-290-2915)

LittleMissMatched 
50% to 80% off socks, apparel, shoes, and accessories for girls of all ages.

When/Where: Thursday, March 1 through Friday, March 2. Thurs 11am—7pm, 9am—5pm. 307 Seventh Ave between 27th and 28th Sts, fifth floor (no phone)

Diptyque 

Markdowns on candles and other home goods. Credit card only (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover); all sales final.

When/Where: Thursday, March 1 through Friday, March 2. Thurs—Fri 9am—5pm. 11 East 26th St between Fifth and Madison Aves (no phone)

  Rent the Runway

Up to 95% off retail prices of gently used dresses and accessories from designers like Badgley Mischka, Nicole Miller, David Meister, Catherine Malandrino, Rebecca Taylor, and more. Credit only. When/Where: Tuesday, February 28 through Sunday, March 4. Tue—Wed 10am—8pm, Thurs—Fri 10am—7pm, Sat 11am—6pm, Sun 11am—3pm. 260 Fifth Ave between 28th and 29th Sts (212-725-5400)