Posted by admin on August 10th, 2009 in Fashion, Shopping

I’ve noticed a surge in online membership-only shopping sites.  It’s a good idea.  Many of them specialize in one-day events that

feature a designer of home goods or clothing or whatever the site is about.  I personally belong to 3 such sites and have ordered from the home goods one several times with no complaints.  You do have to log-in and  you do have to pay attention to their email notifications.  Otherwise, you miss an opportunity.    It’s a win-win situation.  The manufacturer/designer has an additional outlet for their products and the customer gets a deal on some lovely something or other.

Gilt-Fuse

Let me tell you a little bit (at least what I know) about one such site. Here is the description in the company’s own words:
“Modeled after Gilt, Gilt Fuse will feature hand-selected looks from a single designer sold for only 36 hours. The first brands to debut on the site, at prices up to 70% off retail, include Plenty by Tracy Reese, Kova & T, Modern Amusement, CC Skye, TKO Orologi, RJ Graziano and BCBG. Upcoming sales will be announced through Gilt Fuse’s Web site and in a weekly e-newsletter.”

Sound interesting?  Gilt-Fuse is targeting a younger member base than its luxury-based predecessor (Gilt). Their goal is to pair high style with affordable cost. I’m all for that!   The company describes their target customer as both stylish and sensible. “With an endless wardrobe just a click away, Gilt Fuse members know how to mix their casual fashion with investment pieces from Gilt, thrift-store steals and vintage finds, building their wardrobe without stepping outside or breaking the bank.”

Flash Sales

My friend tells me that sites like these are called “flash sales” and the category is expanding.  Check it out and see what you think.  It  launches August 12th. In my experience, it’s best to set up a separate email account for memberships or online shopping.  That way, all the frequent emails “notifying you of sales” doesn’t clutter up your regular email inbox.   It will be interesting if the brands they carry are appropriate for teens/young adults.  It would be nice to have an alternative to the mall.