girls wearing Lilly Pulitzer dresses

Lilly Pulitzer Women’s Mila Dress, Matching Girls’ Dress and Matching Baby Dress / Jack Rogers (In white and in more sizes here.) / Toddler Jack Rogers (Also here.)

Exciting news today! I’m leaking the details of the Summer 2019 Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale, releasing some of the products that’ll be included, giving away $500, and sharing my best tips and tricks for shopping the sale. Ah, September. You’re so much fun.

Most up-to-date information about the sale, straight from the Lilly team:

  • The online After Party Sale will begin on Monday, September 9th around 8am(ish) EST and will run through Wednesday, September 11th. However, you can shop the sale in stores this weekend, from September 7th to 8th.
  • To enter to win $500 to shop the sale, simply take a look at all the current Lilly Pulitzer prints, and tell me in the comments below which one is your favorite and what you’re hoping to score during the sale. Be sure to leave your e-mail address in the following non-spammy format so I can get in touch with you: Kelly [at] gmail [dot] com. Winner will be announced and contacted the morning of the sale, and paid via Venmo or Paypal. Good luck!
  • Direct quote from Lilly: “We are expecting inventory to last.” (YAY!) The sale is taking place over the course of three days, which, again, means that there’s a ton of inventory. This is awesome news you can shop far more leisurely. While some products may sell out quickly, there will undoubtedly be tons to choose from throughout the entirety of the sale, even if you can’t log on until you get home from work that evening.

top styles for Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale Dates

One (UPF 50+ High Rise Weekender Midi Legging, APS $59, originally $108)

Two (UPF 50+ Luxletic Weekender Midi Legging, APS $54, originally $98)

Three (UPF 50+ Luxletic High Rise Leggings, APS $54, originally $108)

Four (UPF 50+ Luxletic Weekender Crop Leggings, APS $54, originally $108)

Five (Alivia Dress, APS $62, originally $228)

Six (Flamenco One-Piece Swimsuit, APS $59, originally $138)

Seven (Pearl Romper, APS $59, originally $168)

Eight (Mila Stretch Shift Dress, APS $74, originally $188)

Nine (Bowen Halter Top, APS $39, originally $88)

Ten (Mila Engineered Stretch Shift Dress, APS $64, originally $188)

Eleven (UPF 50+ Skipper Popover, APS $59, originally $98)

Twelve (Margot Swing Dress, APS $54, originally $108)

Thirteen (Garden Gem Statement Earrings, APS $24, originally $58)

Fourteen (Feeling Nautilus Chandelier Earrings, APS $19, originally $48)

Fifteen (Madia Tunic Dress, APS $54, originally $178)

Sixteen (Luella Swing Dress, APS $44, originally $108)

Seventeen (Cascading Petals Hoop Earrings, APS $19, originally $48)

Eighteen (Maritime Earrings, APS $24, originally $58)

Nineteen (Nevie Dress, APS $59, originally $118)

Twenty (Natalie Shirtdress Cover-Up, APS $64, originally $118)

Twenty-One (Nala Soft Shift Dress, APS $64, originally $178)

Twenty-Two (UPF 50+ High Rise Weekender Midi Legging, APS $59, originally $108)

Lilly Pulitzer After Party sale dresses

One (Marli Stretch Shift Dress, APS $84, originally $198)

Two (Elsa Silk Top, APS $69, originally $158)

Three (Dusk Strappy Silk Dress, APS $99, originally $198)

Four (Mens Beaumont Short, APS $59, originally $98)

Five (Baby Lilly Infant Shift Dress, APS $34, originally $48. Missing exact link so linking to current.)

Six (Jesse Romper, APS $74, originally $158)

Seven (Girls Little Lilly Classic Shift Dress, APS $34, originally $58)

  • Above, I’m excited to give you a sneak peek of what’ll be included. Of course, these are just a few styles, and you’ll see WAY more on the 9th, 10th and 11th. But the products you see here are some of Lilly’s most-loved and most-purchased.
  • Expect additional “product drops” on the second and third day of the sale. New styles will be added to the sale on both Tuesday, September 10th around 9 a.m. EST and Wednesday, September 11th. At the moment, the time for Wednesday’s drop is TBD. But when I find out, I’ll let you know via the blog, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. So be sure to follow along with me on those platforms!
  • I will be doing a try-on session with a lot of the above styles on the blog and on social in the coming days. I’ll review the products and speak to the fit, quality, and versatility of each item… so I hope that’ll be helpful! Stay tuned. :)
  • Confirmed: As always, there will be a virtual line. Read more about that below.

Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale get the scoop

FAQs + Tips and Tricks for Shopping the Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale

🌴 When is the September 2019 Lilly Pulitzer After Party Summer Sale?

The online After Party Sale will begin on Monday, September 9th around 8am(ish) EST and will run through Wednesday, September 11th. However, you can shop the sale in stores this weekend, from September 7th to 8th.

🌴 What is it, exactly?

It’s Lilly Pulitzer’s semi-annual sale. The company doesn’t mark down its products throughout the year; instead, it typically holds two sales: one in early January and the other in late summer. All sales are final, but everything does ship free.

🌴 What goes on sale?

It’s usually a mixture of products from years past, specific items from more recent and current collections, and possibly new (limited stock) merchandise. Again, my friends at Lilly tell me that this year, they are “expecting inventory to last,” so there will be lots to choose from. Get excited!

Towards the end of the season, Lilly actually pulls those current products (and sometimes prints all together) from the site because the company plans on including them in the upcoming sale. The sale is a great time to score popular prints that haven’t been available for a while, too. In the past, Lilly has included samples and new products made from older prints and materials, which is very fun.

Regardless, I recommend scanning the site now since some of what’s on there now will likely be discounted.

🌴 What are the prices like?

I’ve seen dresses marked as low as $29 and $39, with fancier ones in the $49 to $89 range… and accessories marked down to under $20, for example. I bought a pair of Palazzo pants last year for $49, a couple of tops for $29, and a few little girls’ dresses for Emma for $29 each. I also remember sweaters and cardigans being marked down to as low as $39!

In short, the prices are good, haha, and you can expect discounts of up to 80 percent.

🌴 How does it work?

As always, Lilly will undoubtedly have a “virtual line” in an effort to avoid site crashes and to ensure that everyone gets the chance to shop. When you arrive at the site, you’ll receive a number and a wait time, even if you arrive promptly at 8. Once you’re in, you can shop until you check out. When you check out, you’ll be placed at the back of the virtual line again. It’s that simple!

This process has worked well in the past. While numbers and wait times might seem extraordinarily high, they’re not as bad as you might think. The line goes relatively quickly (often more quickly than your given wait time indicates), and you’re in before you know it, with TONS of merchandise left to shop. I also like that the virtual line prevents shoppers from going crazy and emptying their bank accounts.

I should note that yes, sometimes numbers and wait times are pushed back, but this is an important precautionary measure that Lilly only takes when necessary to avoid site crashes. If it’s happening to you, it’s happening to everyone. If you run out of time to shop because you have to go to work or school, for example, most people are in the same position. You’ll be able to shop once you’re home, and I promise that there will be awesome merchandise waiting for you. Never has ALL the good stuff sold out on the first day.

Because of the virtual line, though, it’s helpful to turn up the sound on your computer or device. Typically, you’ll hear a loud ding! when you’re let into the sale.

🌴 Why should I set up an account (or update it) ahead of time?

The site will likely be down for several hours before kickoff time for sale preparation, it’s best to create a Lilly account now. If you already have one, look over your billing address, shipping address, and credit card/PayPal information, and then double check everything. I recommend pre-loading both your credit card and PayPal info. (You can also use gift cards during the sale, btw.)

🌴 How do I get a good spot in the virtual line?

The day before the sale, log in to your account and leave the window open. Then, set your alarm! Remember that the sale will start at 8 a.m. EST, so account for that if you’re elsewhere in the country like I am.

The following morning, at sale time, simply hit “refresh”–over and over again, haha. Once you get in and receive a number, STOP clicking refresh, or else you’ll lose your spot in line. (And obviously don’t close the browser or spill coffee into your computer, like I’ve done in the past. #goodtimes)

And yes: lots and lots of people will be commuting or already at work when the sale goes live. Like I said, it’s really not the end of the world if you can’t log on at 8 a.m. — I swear! There aren’t many who can, since most people have to go to school or work. I’ve logged on during lunch breaks or at night in years past, and I’ve scored some amazing stuff. (I’m also not lying just to make you feel better.) The wait times are usually shorter or even non-existent later in the day, so it’s actually a bit nicer!

🌴 Can I use multiple devices?

YES!

I use my laptop to shop the sale since I work from home, but you can also shop on any internet-capable device. If you can’t be at your computer at the time of the sale, for example, utilize that phone!

Many sales ago, mobile devices and tablets seemed to work better than computers, but over the last couple of years, I’ve found all devices to be reliable. Use whatever option you’re most comfortable with.

🌴 Why is it important to know my size?

Because After Party merchandise is non-returnable. But this isn’t a big deal, as Lilly sizing is very consistent. From time to time, though, certain pieces–like the brand’s shifts, for example–run large or small. (FYI, I usually go one size down in Lilly shifts, but I always check the reviews before ordering.)

If you don’t own many Lilly pieces or are at a complete loss, do your research beforehand by reading product reviews and visiting fitting rooms. If you don’t live near a Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store, try department stores–like Nordstrom–that carry the brand. Oh, and here’s the Lilly size guide.

My best advice here, though, would be to go with your usual size when you’re shopping the actual sale if you’re not 100-percent sure. You can’t do very much about a product that’s too small, but one that’s slightly large can always be tailored or altered!

Note: I normally order a size XS in dresses and a size small in most everything else because I like my tops and sweaters a little looser. For reference, I’m just about 5’5, wear a size 34 A bra, wear a size 25 in jeans, and I have a long torso and not-so-long legs. I sometimes need to get Lilly pants and maxi dresses hemmed, but many of my friends who are 5’5 and have longer legs do not.

🌴 How can I shop most effectively?

During the sale, you’ll likely see a couple of options: “show filters” and “sort by.” They’ve appeared at the top of the page in the past. There’s no use in wasting your time looking at products that aren’t available in your size, so click “show filters” and select “women’s sizes” first. I tend to then click on “sort by” and select “price – low to high” next. If you’re nuts about a particular print, you might want to select that under “show filters,” though. Everyone has her own method!

If you’re over-the-moon in love with a particular item and you have to have it, check out immediately. You’ll be placed at the end of the virtual line if you do this, but you won’t be heartbroken that you lost what you had your heart set on. :)

🌴 Why is it important to act quickly?

Building on the previous paragraph, just because a product is in your cart doesn’t mean it’s yours. Sizes go quickly during the sale, and products sell out fast. Again: if you’re over-the-moon in love with a particular item and you have to have it, check out immediately. Shipping is free, so you can place multiple orders guilt-free. (I know I sound like a broken record, but remember that once you check out, you’re placed at the back of the virtual line. So that particular item needs to be really awesome.)

🌴 How will the ordering process run?

Certain parts of it will likely run slowly.

In the past, this is how it’s worked:

  1. You receive a confirmation e-mail within a few hours of ordering. (Not immediately!)
  2. Next, your order appears as “processing” while it’s being selected and packed up.
  3. After that, the order is marked as “shipped.” (While this process normally takes two to three days, it might be completed faster or much slower during the sale. Some people receive order confirmation emails immediately, while others see them a few hours later… and some people receive their products within a day or two, while others see their orders three to five weeks later. It’s normal! You can check your order status here.)

🌴 Why should I set a budget?

Because no one should go broke because of this! :)

I think it’s somewhat easy to get caught up in the excitement of a really good sale, but it’s important that we don’t all empty our bank accounts and buy things we won’t have uses for. Identifying what you’re looking for ahead of time and setting a budget is of the upmost importance. If you’d have serious regret if you spent over a certain amount of money, know what that number is, and don’t go over it.

🌴 Why should I be understanding and stay grounded? ;)

Because you ARE an understanding and grounded person, and you will not let a silly sale affect those wonderful qualities! 😂

Like I mentioned, Lilly will likely be working to prepare the site ahead of time, and the virtual line is extremely helpful in preventing site crashes. But stuff happens. If you see the cute “Oh Shift” message or a notification that you’re “in line,” it’s highly probable that most other people are seeing that, too. (So you’re not missing anything!) A sudden influx of traffic can cause issues for any site, no matter how much preparation. Back in January, things went pretty well, but if something happens this time, be patient and understanding. No need to get ugly and publish nasty Tweets or post mean comments on Facebook. It’s super nice that the company is doing this in the first place, right?! :)

Similarly, do the right thing while the sale is going on. I don’t love it when people buy a ton of stuff just to turn around and sell it all on eBay for a profit. Let’s remember the high school girl who’s spending her hard-earned money on her first Lilly dress. Or the tired mom who’d like to buy a few things for her daughter. Or the college girl who needs outfits for “rush,” haha. Okay, I’m being dramatic. 😂 If something doesn’t fit you, fine. Sell or trade it. (Re-Lilly is a great option!) But let’s play fair. Just think of the joy you got out of your first Lilly dress. Don’t you want some girl out there to have that same magical experience?!

Finally, try to remain grounded. I’m certainly not going to judge you if you feel compelled to call out of work so that you can have first pick, or employ your family members and friends to “divide and conquer.” (I’ve totes had my husband shop for me in the past, haha!) But remember to keep a level head. ;)  This is just a sale, and Lilly swears it won’t be the last. You will have a chance to shop, no matter when you log on. And if you’re totally unavailable for the entirety of the sale, there will be another one in January.

🌴 Where can I find updates?

I’ll be putting up several blog posts before and during the Lilly sale! (Spoiler: there will be more giveaways!) Be sure to follow along and join the conversation. :)

Additionally, following the Kelly in the City Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts will be helpful. I’m going to be super active on social during the sale, providing as many updates and insider tricks as possible. This is my Facebook account, this is my Instagram account, and this is my Twitter account. Let’s be friends!

Likewise, following Lilly’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts is a good idea. ;)

🌴 How can I shop for free?

Through this blog! I host giveaways before and during the sale, and entering is super easy. To enter today’s $500 giveaway, simply:

  • Comment in the comment section at the end of this post and tell me what your favorite current Lilly Pulitzer print is along with what you hope to score during the sale.
  • Leave your email in the following non-spammy format so I can get in touch with you: Kelly [at] gmail [dot] com.

That’s it! A randomly selected winner will be announced on the morning of the sale so she has ample time to shop. Good luck!

Why do I host these giveaways? There are a few reasons: to entice new people to visit my blog (and hopefully follow on a more long-term basis), to make posts a bit more exciting and fun, and to say thank you!

Running this blog is my full-time job, and one of the ways I earn a living is by putting together guides for shopping my favorite sales. If you click on a link and purchase something through the site, I make a commission. While the commission on a single purchase is usually very small, they add up over time… and this is how I keep the lights on and keep this site–which I hope you enjoy visiting–afloat!

Crazy, right? Sometimes I can’t believe that this is what I do, haha. But I’m beyond grateful, because I really love it, and it allows me to stay home with my daughters. (Such a gift.) And since you are the reason for all of it, you deserve a big thank you. (Even if you don’t win, please know how grateful I am. And I will run additional giveaways in the future; I promise!)

🌴 Will Lilly Pulitzer Signature Stores be participating in the sale?

Yes! They won’t have as much inventory as the online store, but it’s worth checking out. You can shop the sale in stores this weekend, from September 7th to 8th. Locate your nearest store here.

🌴 Will other retailers discount their Lilly products?

They normally do. Retailers like Nordstrom, RueLaLa, Saks and Amazon will put a lot of their Lilly stuff on sale during and after the sale. I’ve found some great deals on those sites, so be sure to check ’em on sale day! (This is also a great thing to do while you wait to be let into the sale.) These products generally are returnable, unless otherwise noted.

🌴 Good luck! Have additional questions? Leave them in the comment section below and I’ll update this post/answer to the best of my ability! 🌴

a baby in a dress
a girl in a floral dress from Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale Dates
a girl hiding behind a floral book
three women in dresses
a girl in Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale dress
a girl in a Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale dress
a baby
a baby and a mom
a little girls face
a girls face
a female family in Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale dresses
a girl looking at a photo album in a Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale dress
a mom and her baby
a little girl smiling in a dress

Shop the post:

Lilly Pulitzer Women’s Mila Dress, Matching Girls’ Dress and Matching Baby Dress / Jack Rogers (In white and in more sizes here.) / Toddler Jack Rogers (Also here.)

Sneak peek of the sale:

Remember: To enter today’s $500 giveaway, simply…

  • Comment in the comment section at the end of this post and tell me what your favorite current Lilly Pulitzer print is along with what you hope to score during the sale.
  • Leave your email in the following non-spammy format so I can get in touch with you: Kelly [at] gmail [dot] com.

That’s it! A randomly selected winner will be announced on the morning of the sale so she has ample time to shop. Good luck!