Fred Perry, Tibi, Yigal Azrouel, Lela Rose, Robert Clergerie sample sale

I had a crazy busy weekend, so sorry for the lack of posts welcoming you to the new week! On Saturday we did a daytrip to Philadelphia for a friend's annual BBQ. At last-minute we opted to Zipcar it (and pay the mile overage) versus taking Amtrak, so we rented one of their 'premium' vehicles: a Volvo S40 at a hefty $180/day. Usually we go for the basic Toyotas/Mazdas (or once in a while kick it up with a Mini), but this was our first foray into the big leagues. It turned out poorly. For one, on Saturday Weather.com was WRONG WRONG WRONG. In my mind I had planned this supercute sundress/sandals outfit, but since it said 'high-70s' in Philly, so I went with a tank top with cardigan, cargo pants and flats. Still a cute look, but not 'summery'. Combine that with no A/C in the car (totally broken). I can't remember the last time I drove 100+ miles down a highway with the windows open, stripping along the way in 85+ degree weather. It must have been in college when I rented a busted-up U-Haul to move my furniture from one house to another! It was miserable. I arrived at the BBQ already grimy and disgusting, and not even fully outfitted. Lesson learned: just stay with the cheap cars because you can't get too angry at $13/hr.

Things to get happy about: upcoming sample sales (per Daily Candy):

What: Fred Perry
Why: Iconic polos, track jackets, and footwear for $40.
When: May 11-17. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., noon-5 p.m.
Where: 547 W. 27th St., b/t Tenth & Eleventh Aves.

What: Tibi
Why: Terry strapless cover-ups for $40 (reg. $185), swimwear for $55 (reg. $190), dresses for $99 (reg. $380).
When: May 13-15. Wed., 1-7 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 409 W. 39th St., b/t Ninth & Tenth Aves.

What: Yigal Azrouël
Why: Gowns for $275, dresses for $125, tops for $100, pants for $75. Casual merch for men starts at $43.
When: May 13-15. Wed. & Thurs., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: 225 W. 39th St., b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves., 7th flr. (212-302-1194).

What: Lela Rose
Why: Fifty to 75 percent off party dresses and RTW.
When: May 13-15. Wed.-Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 224 W. 30th St., b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves., 13th flr.

What: Robert Clergerie
Why: First-time sample sale has actual samples (about 200 pairs) in sizes 5.5-10 from the fashion closet. Chunky heels, clogs, and boots are $100-$150 (reg. $400-$900).
When: May 15 & 16. Fri. & Sat., 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Where: 19 E. 62nd St., b/t Fifth & Madison Aves. (212-207-8600).