Wait, Saving Money at SOHO Prada? Seriously?
Prada saving money? You’re joking right? That’s what everyone says. Me too, honestly. I thought it was crazy talk. But hey, I’m always down to test stuff out. So I packed my skepticism and headed down to their SOHO spot, ready to be disappointed.
Walking In & Feeling Broke
First things first, stepping into that place? Nerve-wracking. Everything shines, the air smells like expensive leather, and the clothes look like art. Prices? Eye-watering. Felt like buying one piece would need a second mortgage. Almost chickened out right there. Seriously considered just buying some overpriced keychain to say I did something and bolting.
The Hunt for “Deals” Begins
Took a deep breath. Okay, plan: find the clearance racks. Every luxury store hides ’em. Wandered around pretending I belonged. Sales people looked… polite but slightly amused. Ignored the shiny new stuff. Kept eyes peeled for less prominent corners, racks without the spotlight.
Striking Gold (Well, Discounted Nylon)
Bingo! Found it tucked away near the back. Smaller section, definitely not advertised. But there it was:
- A nylon backpack – last season’s color, blue instead of black. Significantly cheaper.
- A silk scarf with a tiny, almost invisible flaw in the pattern.
- Some men’s dress shoes, looked fine to me, just last year’s sole design.
The Negotiation Tango
Saw the backpack. Tag price was still steep but better. Grabbed it. Asked the nearest salesperson: “Anything more off this? It’s last season, right?” She paused. Looked at me. Looked at the bag. “Let me check.” Disappeared for a minute. Came back. “We can do an additional 15% off since it’s been here awhile.” Jackpot moment. Didn’t even need to haggle much, just asked! Scooped it up before she changed her mind.
Walking Out Without Selling a Kidney
Final score: Got the previous season’s backpack for way, way less than the current price. Still expensive? Yeah. But it’s real Prada, and I didn’t have to max out a credit card. Felt like a proper victory.
My SOHO Prada “Saving Money” Rules
- Rule 1: Find the Dusty Corner. Clearance ain’t gonna be front and center. Hunt it down. Ask directly: “Where’s your sale section?” Be shameless.
- Rule 2: Imperfections Are Your Friend. Tiny flaw? Last season? Slightly odd color? That’s your discount ticket. Inspect it, decide if you care.
- Rule 3: JUST ASK FOR MORE OFF. Seriously! Especially on sale stuff already marked down. “Is this the final price?” or “Any additional discount?” Costs nothing. Worst they say is no. Often they say yes.
- Rule 4: Lower Expectations, But Be Ready. Don’t expect half-off runway stuff. Do expect significant savings on less hyped, older, or slightly irregular stuff. Be patient.
So yeah, saving money at Prada? Sounds insane. But it’s possible if you play it smart and aren’t afraid to poke around and speak up. Still pinching myself I pulled it off. That backpack gets stares.
