At this year's Frock Shop Spring Sample Sale, savvy shoppers will get to browse though pieces by both established and up-and-coming designers in Colorado. Now in its second year, Frock Shop -- the brainchild of Colorado State University apparel and merchandising graduate Katie Gartner -- brings together items from a handful of boutiques and independent designers, then prices them 50 to 80 percent off retail prices for a seasonal, two-day sale.

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The high-quality, discounted merchandise ranges from everyday apparel to dresses for special occasions and swimwear. Jewelry, shoes and other accessories will also be a part of the sale, Gartner says, but even she won't know everything the designers have to offer until the stock comes in the day before the sale begins.

"I'm getting a bunch of really nice special occasion dresses from Anna Bé in lower Highland, which will be good for anyone looking for a dress for a wedding, a summer party or even a Christmas party next winter," say Gartner.

Other participating boutiques and designers include Goldyn, Unity, Blush, Rack & Roll, Mona Lucero, FreeRavin, Rae Marie, 50 Dresses and Janie G. Gartner says she's especially excited to be selling the designs of Musas, a local swimwear company.

The sample sale is inside the Fashion Denver showroom, Gartner points out, which means there will be plenty of space to shop in a relaxed atmosphere, complete with changing rooms and complimentary champagne. Prices will range from $15 to $150. "Saturday morning is the busiest -- people want to get there and get the good stuff, because what we have on the floor is what we've got," she says. "If you want first pick, you have to get there early."

The second annual Frock Shop Sample sale runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 20, and Sunday, April 21, at the Fashion Denver showroom, 1070 Bannock Street. For more information, visit the Frock Shop website.

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