Madison Avenue Spy reported last week that the Filene’s Basement in Chelsea was closing, pointing out that the merchandise was lackluster and that anyone going there would have to invest in the time to dig through the merchandise to find gems.  Sample Sally contributor, Artsy Anna, was up to the challenge, stopping in Monday night.  Here’s her report:

Everything is an extra 50-90% off, with most in the 60% range.  Selection leaves something to be desired but if you’re a hunter, this is a sale you shouldn’t skip.  Most of what I saw was designer diffusion, bridge, and ladies’ better sportswear (labels like Michael Michael Kors, Elie Tahari, Liz Claiborne, Jones New York, ABS, BCBG, Kenneth Cole, and Theory).  Much of the merchandise is shopworn but there are some deals if you’re patient and savvy.  I found a great metallic jacquard skirt for $7.99 and a private label cashmere cardigan for $12.  Deals worth considering are Theory cropped cotton pants (I saw sizes 4, 10 and 12) and a few autumn cashmere sweaters and wraps.

One of the upsides to the sale is that you can try on clothes (over your clothing, of course) right on the sales floor.  You may have to search out a mirror and share with fellow customers but for anyone who’s been inside a filthy Filene’s Basement dressing room, waiting for mirror time is a sacrifice worth making.

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