Summer’s warmth and whimsy are coming to a close to make space for fall—at least when it comes to clothing retailers. While I’ll miss the sun’s heat in the park and enjoying the outdoors without a sweater, the one good thing about saying goodbye to summer is the end-of-summersales. I’ve had items living in my cart, just itching to click checkout, but I’m a responsible young adult (most of the time), and I waited patiently for these sales to start.
The verdict following my exhaustive search of the end-of-summer sales is that some of the best sale items can be found on retailers likeNet-a-Porter andSSENSE for a splurge, and others, such as Madewell,Nordstrom,Revolve, andShopbop, for more affordable and mid-price-range sales. Most items I found are up to 50% off, including designer pieces. I actually even gasped a few times at the steals I saw. With the new season approaching, I thought I’d give my closet a much-needed zhuzh with pieces that are marked down, and figured you might too. From cocktail attire to basics, keep scrolling to find an item that might fit your wardrobe, splurge on an item or two, or add some elegant pieces to your closet.
Madewell
Sleeveless Boatneck Side Slit Tee
A modest, elegant top.
Carhartt Work In Progress
Blue Arca Denim Jacket
I rarely see cropped denim jackets anymore, this one has a chic utiility vibe.
Citizens of Humanity
Marcelle Low Rise Barrel Cargo Jeans
A trusty pair dark wash jeans just entered the chat.
Madewell
The Simone Kitten-Heel Slingback Pumps
A fiery red shoe for a pop of color.
Heaven Mayhem
Bunch Earrings
Guaranteed to make all of your outfits chicer.
AGOLDE
Dame High Waist Wide Leg Jeans
This wash of jeans is so Americana.
Reebok
Classic Nylon Escape Sneakers
A new, stylish go-to sneaker is always on my shopping list.
& Other Stories
Tailored Vest Top
This top could also work as a layering piece.
Desigual
Faux Leather Shoulder Bag
Silver grommets on a black bag look so cool.
Róhe
Off Shoulder Light Scuba Dress
This dress for a friend's wedding or for a gala event is speaking to me.
J.Crew
Barrel-Leg Jean
The barrel fit is elite.
& Other Stories
Beaded Tulle Mini Dress
This is such a steal, and a great cocktail dress.
Ulla Johnson
Vivi Top
I love a basic top with an added textured detail.
MORE TO COME
Caliste Bubble Dress
This whimsical dress made me love the bubble hem again.
Isabel Marant
Zohra Blouse
I almost splurged full-price, I'm so glad I didn't.
Ottolinger
Charmed Top
I love the tie detail of this tank top.
Marques' Almeida
Heavy Satin Sleeveless Fitted Draped Top
Asymmetrical tops made from a rich satin fabric just screams chic.
Kerane Marcellus is a New York-based writer. She joined the Who What Wear team in 2025 after writing for Essence Magazine and freelancing for a number of other arts and culture publications. Fashion is a form of expression that she encourages everyone to take part in. There is no right or wrong in getting dressed! When she's not writing, she's reading in the park or gallery hopping in the city.