Gilt makes offline leap — but no walk-ins

New York -- Members of the flash sale site Gilt will soon be able to see close up some of the site’s designer deals on the popular website, complete with a personal stylist — but only if they book ahead.



In the latest example of an online retailer opening a physical space, the members-only upscale discounter has launched a new service, Gilt by Appointment, that allows members to shop a curated selection of designer apparel, shoes and accessories in a showroom space located in Gilt’s Manhattan headquarters. The only caveat: They have to call ahead and make an appointment.



The showroom debuts Tuesday, Sept. 8, and will be open Tuesday through Friday. Appointments will last anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes.



"We always look for new ways to engage our members and bring them insider access to the most coveted brands," said Clay Cowan, Gilt’s chief marketing officer. "Launching the Gilt by Appointment showroom opens up a whole new way of shopping Gilt, allowing our members to experience the perks of Gilt.com with the convenience that comes with brick-and-mortar shopping, including trying on and seeing items in-person, shopping with a personal stylist, and the excitement of taking home their purchases that day."



To book an appointment, members visit the appointment page on the Gilt site and select from one of three different appointment types. There are options to shop alone, or with other members. There is also a “group” option whereby one member can bring in five friends (who hopefully will become Gilt members).



On the appointment page, members can note the occasion or pieces they are shopping for. The personal stylist will pull the appropriate pieces ahead of time and assist the customer in selecting the best items for their event, personal style, and budget.



Gilt promises that the showroom will be filled with its “signature steals,” including an assortment of designer & luxury labels and current season must-haves. Featured designers will include Vintage Chanel, Vintage Hermes, Isabel Marant, Derek Lam, Miu Miu, Balenciaga, Jimmy Choo, Anna Sui, Tibi, Helmut Lang and more. All items will include Gilt's standard up to 70% off discount.