Deals worth the wait: Vera Wang bridal gown sample sale

Some deals only come around once or twice a year, but offer savings that justify the wait. This post is part of our series on such 'don't miss' sales.

Designer Vera Wang's wedding gowns are known for their elegance and beauty. The prices are commensurate, though, ranging up to just shy of $10,000. However, once a year the home boutique in New York City's Carlyle Hotel holds a sample/clearance sale, which attracts the betrothed from all points of the globe.

Wang's fashions can be also be found in Saks, Nieman Marcus and Marshal Fields, but only in NYC does this killer deal take place, in late November. Past sales have found shoppers fighting over gowns and using aisles as dressing rooms.

Like most sample sales, the selection favors the bride of average proportions, with sizes 6-10 in better supply. For 75% off a Wang wedding gown, the trip is certainly justifiable. And Tiffany's is handily nearby, if you're still shopping for the wedding rings.