What Is a Sample Sale? Inside DAUB's Sample & Overstock Sale

What Is a Sample Sale? Inside DAUB's Sample & Overstock Sale

Why We're Holding a Sample + Overstock Sale

One of the challenges of producing clothing in small batches is that inventory is never perfectly predictable.

At DAUB, we work hard to make only what we believe we can sell. It's one of the reasons we've always manufactured locally and maintained relatively small production runs. We'd rather sell through a style than be left with hundreds of units to clear out later. Producing responsibly is an important part of our business and one of the ways we reduce unnecessary waste.

That said, after 15 years of designing and manufacturing clothing in Vancouver, we've accumulated a variety of pieces that don't quite fit into our regular collection. Some are fit samples from development. Some were sewn for photoshoots. Some are customer returns. Some have minor imperfections. A few have been worn briefly at trade shows, events, or photo sessions. Others are simply the last remaining sizes from previous production runs.

Rather than letting these pieces sit in storage, we'd much rather see them become part of someone's wardrobe.

What's Included in the Sale?

The sale includes a mix of:

• Fit samples
• Photoshoot samples
• Production samples
• Customer returns 
• Slightly imperfect pieces
• Damaged goods
• Overstock inventory
• Discontinued colours and styles

Many of these items are available in very limited quantities. Some are one-of-a-kind. Others may only be available in a single size.

Our samples are typically sewn in Small + Large for photoshoots and Medium or Large for fit development, so shoppers in those sizes will likely find the widest selection. That said, there will be a variety of sizes available throughout the sale, including pieces from previous production runs and overstock inventory.

A Few Styles Are Being Retired

One of the realities of running an independent clothing brand is that not every style can remain in the collection forever.

Over the next week, we'll be sharing some of the pieces that are being retired from the DAUB collection. A few of them may surprise you. Some have been with us for years and have developed loyal followings.

If you've been thinking about adding a favourite style to your wardrobe, we'd encourage you to keep an eye on our social media and email newsletters as we share more details.

Why We Don't Run Frequent Sales

One of the reasons many customers have supported DAUB over the years is because they know we don't operate on a constant discount cycle.

We believe clothing should be priced fairly from the beginning. We believe in paying local manufacturers, using quality fabrics, and producing thoughtfully rather than chasing volume. Frequent markdowns encourage overproduction, which is exactly what we're trying to avoid.

Our Sample + Overstock Sale isn't designed to drive excessive consumption. It's simply our way of finding homes for pieces that already exist while creating space for what's next.

Please Note:

This will be a smaller Sample Sale than in the past. Come early + prepared. No backpacks or large bags will be allowed. We suggest wearing a tank top and bike shorts under your clothes to try on items easily. Wear undergarments.

Join Us at the Studio


Whether you're searching for a specific style, hoping to discover a one-of-a-kind piece, or simply curious to visit the studio, we'd love to see you.

DAUB Sample + Overstock Sale

June 18–20
108 East Broadway, Vancouver
(Enter off Quebec)

Thursday: 3pm–7pm
Friday: 10am–6pm
Saturday: 10am–4pm

Quantities are limited and all purchases are final sale. 
We prefer Cash + Debit as our margins are already drastically reduced on these.
Visa + Mastercard will be accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there parking close by?

Yes! There are designated spots in the back where it says "DAUB + Portside Interiors". There is also one hour parking on Quebec between Broadway + 10th as well as across Broadway on neighbouring streets. There is metered parking on 10th between Main + Quebec and there are lots available close by.

What sizes will be available?


A variety of sizes will be available throughout the sale. Our fit and photoshoot samples are typically produced in size Small and size Large, but overstock inventory and discontinued styles include additional sizes. This is great because a lot of sample sales are limited to only smaller sizes.


Why are some items discounted?


Items may be discounted because they are samples, customer returns, discontinued styles, overstock inventory, slightly imperfect, or damaged. Each item will be clearly marked.

Will current-season styles be included?


The focus of the sale is samples, overstock, discontinued styles, and inventory that falls outside our regular collection. Selection will vary by category and size.

Can I try items on?


Yes. Our studio fitting rooms will be available during the sale. Sometimes we run with communal change rooms so dress appropriately. We haven't decided our layout as of yet. Wear undergarments and it's helpful to wear a tighter tank and bike shorts as a base layer.

 

Are sale purchases eligible for returns or exchanges?


No. All Sample + Overstock Sale purchases are final sale.

Will inventory be restocked during the sale?


We will be restocking daily but keep in mind, most pieces are available in limited quantities. For example, for photoshoot samples, we only make 1 sample in small + large so these are expected to go quickly and will not be replenished.

How will I know which styles are being discontinued?


We'll be sharing updates through our social media channels and email newsletter in the days leading up to the sale.

What forms of payment do you accept?

For sample sales, we prefer debit and cash because we've already reduced our margins a lot on these items. Credit cards have high processing fees but we will accept Visa + Mastercard.

 

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