Leggings to nail polish, chiffon tops to bobble bottles- you name it and they got it. American Apparel had a warehouse sale in the Marina district last week, with savings up to 90% off. I had the pleasure of going twice and let me tell you, second time’s a charm.
On the opening day, the line whipped around the bend of the warehouse, and my mama bear claws came out. Most of the inventory consisted of leggings, costume clothing, and so forth. The availability of the more desired clothing was limited, but the warehouse was continually restocked daily at all hours. Therefore, on my second trip I was delighted to a galore of beautiful chiffon and mesh.
My Encounter with Dov Charney
On the opening day of the sale, American Apparel owner Dov Charney, attended the event to oversee. I not only wanted to talk to him to get an exclusive interview for Her Campus, but to demand more of the 3D Flower Mesh Jumpers that I love so much. Luckily for us, Dov willingly participated in the interview, “I don’t even give ABC an interview and I’m giving you one!”Â
Amidst all the scandal around the ads of American Apparel, I was able to see a man that was truly invested in his company and employees. American Apparel products are made entirely in the United States and in fair factories (no sweatshops here), which is pretty amazing in this day and age for a mass-produced clothing line. I asked Dov about the trends in American Apparel and how we seldom see anything change from season to season, and he made a great point. He said that the plain white tee would never go out of style and that is what they aim for with American Apparel. They try to keep the styles consistent so that decade to decade we are able to still wear the same great quality American Apparel sweatshirt we love so dearly. The prices are bit hefty for college students like me, but keep in mind everything is made within the states so you are paying for not only quality but also a better standard of living for others as well. The controversy around the scandalous advertisements of American Apparel was no concern to Dov. He said that the company was founded on photography and reflects the American lifestyle. In my opinion, it’s hard to imagine that a naked girl with nothing but a clutch over her breasts is the accurate portrayal of the “American lifestyle”. It’s no secret that Dov Charney has had several controversial sexual assault cases. I have no place to question the judgment or character of Dov, but what I do know is the success of American Apparel speaks for itself.
To clear up any rumors circulating, American Apparel IS NOT GOING UNDER. We can all now take a deep breath and relax. American Apparel is actually having one of their best years since the recession and with a couple of minor incidents American Apparel seems to be globalizing and growing faster than we know it.
If you missed the sale, don’t be too upset because you saved some damage to your credit card. Make sure to be on the look out for future sales to come and Her Campus will be the first to tell you!