It’s that time of the year again. Here’s a chance to snag at least one bargain.

The first of many sample sales is Wednesday, July 2nd at Belle Vie Couture, located at 34 E. Oak St.; hosts a huge sample sale where all of the floor sample dresses will be marked 50 to 80 percent off. The shop carries designers like Christos, Amsale, Justine McCaffrey, Reem Acra, Anne Barge, Elizabeth Fillmore, and Lazaro. All sales are final.

Samples can come from a variety of sources. If the sale is through a bridal salon, the dresses are the stores samples that brides can try on. These dresses, aka Floor Samples, are usually a bit dirty but are available at a huge discount.

If the designer is having a sample sale, the dresses can be from their showroom (Showroom Sample or from a Runway Show Sample. The dress could also be one that the designer chose not to put into production. These dresses tends to be in better condition as they have not been worn many times.

Finally, there are stores that specialize in samples. To name a few in Chicagoland, White Chicago, Weddings 826, Wedding Belles, and Brides Room. Since the dresses have already been cleaned and repaired, you have a great idea of the quality of the dress. These stores may also carry once worn dresses.

Both of my wedding gowns were samples. My Lazaro gown was a sample that had never been worn. Since I bought it from a store that specializes in samples, I don’t know where it came from. I can say that it did have the tags on it and was in “like new” condition so I know that it wasn’t a floor sample.

My after party dress was from the designer. The dress was designed for a runway show. It had been worn only once and was in perfect condition.

If you have any questions, please let me know!