The Elegant Tightwad NYC Shopping Tours

While in New York recently I had the pleasure to go on a shopping trip with The Elegant Tightwad.  As a native New Yorker I dabbled in sample sales with limited success, if you know there is a sample sale that’s one thing but it’s getting in to see those collections that are not attracting every bargain shopper in the city that is the key.  Some of those women are really nasty when they get a look at something they want.

The Elegant Tightwad can take your shopping to a whole other level gaining you access to closed designer showrooms and guiding you through the garment district with ease and expertise.

I went on the 4 hour Garment District Diva shopping trek with 7 other women and a wonderful guide, Pillar.  We went to several showrooms, some brands I was familiar with others I only knew from the glossy magazines.  Most of the items were priced to sell, many pieces were unique and one of a kind.  Which is the hardest part for a shotgun shopper like me, I usually have a gut reaction – like or NO like at all.  Since it is a group tour there is a little waiting while everyone is done.

 Be sure to let them know what type of pieces you’re looking for, work, leisure, gowns, accessories. Our guide was very sweet and willing to send different members of our group to different places which saved time.  If you are looking for a personalized experience and couture pieces you may be better off on an Individualized Trek.

There are even Accessory Addict Treks and Vintage Vamp Tours available, whichever trek you choose be sure to have cash, credit card and even check available to pay for your purchases.  Sizes up to 16 and XL were available but the most selection was in medium sizing.  I bought a few great pieces from Betsy & Babs for my daughters for $10 each and a pair of cutoff gloves for myself made out of a washable knit from Catherine’s.

Check out The Elegant Tightwad’s website for upcoming tours and events, if you absolutely can’t make a tour consider buying the book Dress Like a Million Bucks by Pamela Parisi (The Elegant Tightwad herself!) It is chock full of great info on places to go to get great bargains!