It’s a Gilt Man’s World

awesome.

By jjannuzzi on October 14, 2009 at 02:05:37 PM

This is great. I look forward to the sales each week. BUT I CANT BUY ANYTHING BECAUSE YOU DONT DELIVER TO CANADA!!!!!!

By joshlebrun on October 14, 2009 at 02:06:37 PM

I feel like I can't buy any clothing on Gilt, only accessories, shoes, candles or bath products because of the return policy. Because we cannot try on the clothing before we purchase it, often times the clothing does not fit correctly when you get the clothes home. Without the opportunity to return the item and get the money re-credited back on our credit cards as opposed to a store credit, I do not want to take the risk that I will buy something that won't fit and then have to use up the money that could have been spent elsewhere on items at Gilt that I do not want as much. Please allow for our credit cards to be re-credited with the money that we spent on the item if we return it and I will gladly buy many more items from the website. By Matthew Silverman, an avid shopper. For a reply please e-mail me at silver0100@gmail.com

By matthewsilverman on October 14, 2009 at 02:08:45 PM

SWEEET!

By sonnyjr on October 14, 2009 at 02:13:17 PM

Awesome.

By elliottmogul on October 14, 2009 at 02:13:32 PM

PLEASE START SHIPPING TO CANADA!!!!!!!!

By pbahniwal on October 14, 2009 at 02:15:35 PM

Matthew Silverman makes a valid point. I've ordered quite a few pair of jeans via Gilt and the majority of the times the jeans don't fit well. It's hard to buy things like this because each designer is different. While I wear a size 30 in Seven, I wear a 29 in Diesel, etc. I understand the company's policy of having it be a store credit only - so we end up spending the money here no matter what. However, why not just offer the ability to return the full amount minus shipping or if a customer chooses to get store credit why not give him half or the full shipping back so he/she will be encouraged to shop on the site as an alternative to the money back? Make it a choice, at least. If returned for money back, make sure it's returned within 5-7 days and just place the item back on the site - I'm sure someone will buy it. This will allow me to be a little more "free" when buying clothes on here. I've held back a lot recently because I'm scared a article of clothing won't fit, I'll have to return it and not be able to find something I like for weeks on end. Regards, Josh

By joshisrael on October 14, 2009 at 02:18:39 PM

Gilt is a good place to shop. But it could be better. Here's one way to start: Don't simply state the origin of an item as Imported. We are high-end shoppers, and we need to know more than just the fact that it is made outside of the USA. I am much more likely to spend more money on a sweater or a suit made in Italy than one made in China, Portugal, Turkey, etc. There is no reason Gilt is not capable of providing that information, especially when we get all the details up to and including the particular model's measurements. That is, of course, unless it is a deliberate strategy by Gilt to inflate the value of goods, knowing we might pay less for goods 'imported' from China.....

By mjjacobs on October 14, 2009 at 02:20:01 PM

Gilt is a good place to shop. But it could be better. Here's one way to start: Don't simply state the origin of an item as Imported. We are high-end shoppers, and we need to know more than just the fact that it is made outside of the USA. I am much more likely to spend more money on a sweater or a suit made in Italy than one made in China, Portugal, Turkey, etc. There is no reason Gilt is not capable of providing that information, especially when we get all the details up to and including the particular model's measurements. That is, of course, unless it is a deliberate strategy by Gilt to inflate the value of goods, knowing we might pay less for goods 'imported' from China.....

By mjjacobs on October 14, 2009 at 02:21:03 PM

I'm with Matt. Look at a company like Zappo's or Charles Tyrwhitt. I buy from both at the expense of other shops because they have a generous return policy. I rarely return, but I know that if I buy I won't be penalized. I like the idea of Gilt, but more often than not, I don't follow through with things I've put in my cart because I don't want to be stuck with a credit if I have to return. Change the policy and I'd bet you'd get a lot more customers. You talk in the post about how men and women shop different; here's one man telling you that the return policy keeps me from clicking. Now my wife...

By danielroth on October 14, 2009 at 02:22:14 PM

I am so glad i didnt purchase anything - didn't realize you aren't shipping to Canada.... too bad i am hooked on this site and cant stop visiting. canada needs something like this. someone please step up!!! p.s. i want to see more man purses.

By mattdamon666 on October 14, 2009 at 02:25:14 PM

Nate, I know what you're trying to say here: "The aim is to create a place where we’d want to hang ourselves, every day." But I had to laugh at the impression it gave of someplace I'd wind up hanging myself. You know, with a rope. Every day.

By timjball on October 14, 2009 at 02:25:23 PM

That's great news!! Very excited....I shop on your site fequently and have been very happy with all of my purchases. Your Shoe collection is fantastic and getting better. I'm excited that you added such premium European Designer Shoes such as Grensen and although I didn't purchase the pair I wanted this time(out of my size)...I look forward to them returning and new lines being added. I do have to agree with Mr Silverman, I have refrained from buying clothes for the same reason mentioned above. I am 6'-4" with really long arms and an athletic build and if I am unable to return purchases that don't fit, I wont be able to take full advantage of your new site. I look forward to the day I can, but until then, I will stick to the shoes. Thanks for everything...I do enjoy the site

By pmccollough on October 14, 2009 at 02:26:14 PM

will I still have and be able to use the same username I already use at gilt.com or do I have to request a new membership for giltman.com?

By hrfq on October 14, 2009 at 02:28:19 PM

Another great addition would be more shipping options, including the possibility to ship all items at the end of each week so we dont have to pay $55 to ship 5 items on 5 different days. I think you guys do a really great job with the display of the clothing and the inclusion of the models dimensions so we have something to compare the size and fit to, but I have ordered multiple items only to find that they are a very different color or fabric than they appeared to be in the photographs. If there is anything that can be done about this, such as better lighting or even closer images of the items, that would be great.

By sv5280 on October 14, 2009 at 02:28:22 PM

AWESOME!!! This has been much awaited especially since you launched FUSE. This is the right step for targetting your men audience better and with some sweet deals of course! Now I can't complain that GILT offers more boutiques for girls than guys :)! Looking forward to Oct 19th. Thanks guys!!

By marutishukla on October 14, 2009 at 02:28:33 PM

Great idea to set up a store just for guys but using a picture of a dude wearing red slippers and riding scooter in your introductory email? Hopefully he made it to his pedicure appointment safely.

By erichardie on October 14, 2009 at 02:29:39 PM

I just got an email about the party you are having to celebrate the launch on Oct 19! I'll definitely be there and am inviting some friends. Can you confirm the address? 40 West 20th Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY? What time does it all start?

By dana17 on October 14, 2009 at 02:32:31 PM

I unbderstand the comments about comparing to Zappos, but there is one difference; Zappos charges full price, and Gilt offers a rather significant discount. As a result they need to pull in the reigns somewhere. The fact that you can return for credit is enough for me since I know I'll be shopping through their site again. The fact is the amount of time it would take you to return many of the things on here, you could probably resell for a profit on styleforum.net or on eBay. Keep up the good work.

By mfennon on October 14, 2009 at 02:33:46 PM

Please develop a relationship with Stone Island / CP Company. They clear through (at least) Century 21 and Yoox right now. It would be great if they worked through GILT as well.

By petramcauliffe on October 14, 2009 at 02:34:03 PM

Finally!

By literarycubist on October 14, 2009 at 02:34:43 PM

yeah, I've ended up sending back a few pairs of jeans due to size issues too. The store credit part doesn't bother me though; this is where I purchase most of my clothing online and I know something great is usually coming up soon. It would be nice to get a refund though. That being said, I cannot wait for October 19th. I didn't know Gilt could get any better, apparently it can.

By loganwalsh on October 14, 2009 at 02:44:07 PM

Just great!!!

By juanviznay on October 14, 2009 at 02:45:35 PM

I'm very excited about the Gilt Mnes store - great stuff! On the comments about clothing returns, I do understand the benefit of return policies of other stores, but the deals on Gilt from my perspective negate the return need. In that sense, I only buy clothing that I'm familiar with and know my size - so far I've had no issues and have enjoyed the products I've purchased.

By jrocket on October 14, 2009 at 02:46:51 PM

perfect. You're right. Hate shopping (particularly dept stores)...and no time/patience for checking out the smaller specialty stores. Awessome.

By steveseabolt on October 14, 2009 at 02:47:01 PM

Hi guys I totally agree with the return policy thing. It needs to be changed. Store credit if u want or the money back in your card if that's the road you choose. Other than that i love gilt you guys are awesome. Also review the shipping cost. Sucks to buy a t-shirt for $18 and have it shipd for $10.

By hernytocha2000 on October 14, 2009 at 02:47:45 PM

I'm not certain I'm looking for a place to hang myself, every day no less. :-) That being said, I look forward to the launch of the site.

By jmlinmn on October 14, 2009 at 02:48:18 PM

To me the return policy is acceptable because Gilt deep discounts much more than many other sites I buy from such as RueLaLa, Hautelook, Bluefly, Zappos, etc... As a consumer I would rather have the deeper discounts and receive a store credit. I should note that I own a retail establishment with my wife and we only give store credit on returns. My issue with Gilt is usually with the supply of each item. You need to be on here exactly at noon it seems on some clothes. On Rue LaLa and Hautelook I can log on much later than Gilt and get what I want and their discounts are pretty similar to Gilt, although Gilt has a slight edge. It would be nice if Gilt looked at some of their competitors sites and adapted things such as (a counter that told you how many items are left, etc..)

By billcrawfordland on October 14, 2009 at 02:50:37 PM

Awesome thank you! I see ski goggles being advertised. Awesome. More stuff like that please.

By jakeknowlton on October 14, 2009 at 02:50:53 PM

I am addicted to GILT and look forward to a men’s shop. Couture clothing is such a great addition to any wardrobe and having more items available would be tremendous. I like to have a distinctive look and can find key pieces at GILT. Keep up the excellent work! JLands

By johnflandsborough on October 14, 2009 at 02:55:39 PM

Any chance a Blackberry storm app will be made available?

By unbleevable39 on October 14, 2009 at 03:02:03 PM

I hope I'll be able to use the Gilt on the Go iPhone app to order from Gilt Man!

By agentile27 on October 14, 2009 at 03:08:25 PM

How do I opt-in for the men's shop? Will I be sent GILT Men when it launches?

By kmbjohansen on October 14, 2009 at 03:09:13 PM

Finally something cool for guys :) So this is basically men's Fuse with some gear thrown in as well.

By iyagolnikov on October 14, 2009 at 03:11:30 PM

hey guys, thanks for the feedback on canada, shipping, returns and everything- we are listening and working on the issues. the gilt man site will continue to have the great brands that we've already have with more gear, gadgets & sport stuff. post product ideas, give us feedback on design and let us know what you think on monday. we'll also have a blog for gilt man-- sort of a manual for your own style starting on monday. we hope you'll check it out, use it when you want and help to create the community for men's workware & playware that is missing out there. see you, nate

By nater on October 14, 2009 at 03:18:27 PM

OH CANADA! WHAT ABOUT US?????????????????????????????

By bly1 on October 14, 2009 at 03:28:40 PM

This sounds awesome. Any chance shipping to Canada is coming so I can take advantage?

By devinwconnor on October 14, 2009 at 03:28:47 PM

I don't really care for the gear to be honest. BUT I'm happy to see news mens products, whatever they be. I just hope its not all some stereotypical MANLY MEN SNOWBOARD GOGGLES AND HIKING BOOTS stuff.

By brianty1 on October 14, 2009 at 03:29:56 PM

I agree with Matt, Daniel, pmccollough, mfennon, logan etc. There are valid points on both sides of the issue. On the one hand, receiving store credit as opposed to receiving credit back to your credit card has affected some men's shopping habits on this site, mine included. I do, however, agree that it is negated to the extent that the prices are deeply discounted, and since I will end up buying from this site anyways, the store credit is acceptable as it is only a matter of time before I see something I like and purchase it. Refunding directly to one's credit card would definitely address the issue of buyer's being "click-shy" when it comes to making that final click to purchase, and would set many people's mind at ease, giving them peace about their purchase since they know they can receive all the money back to their credit card. This would, of course, raise at least two more issues: people may end up abusing the policy, returning any and everything they don't find "perfect", and as a result increasing costs to Gilt which in turn could drive up the price of goods. This could be addressed by limiting the number of returns per month, or charging a restocking/service fee for "X" amount of returns or more. I find that the real issue, at least for myself, are the shipping charges (which should be reduced regardless of the return policy as shipping is too high in my humble opinion). Again, this is somewhat negated by the fact that the prices are discounted, but to pay $10 in shipping for a $18 shirt is little short of ridiculous, from any perspective. Thanks for your time and I hope the contributions and opinions of myself and my fellow Gilt shopper's will aid you, then management, to find a solution that would please both buyer and seller.

By preetsaran on October 14, 2009 at 03:36:30 PM

This is fantastic.

By mangeri on October 14, 2009 at 03:37:02 PM

My mother & I shop on here for my brother (as well as for ourselves). If the menswear is separated out for us, will we be able to access it at all? Or is it invite only to the men's section? I'm excited that they're getting a store, but I want access too-more gifts for all.

By allyalt on October 14, 2009 at 03:40:24 PM

I LOVE U GILT! I'm very excited about GILT MEN. Can you guys please PLEASE please bring in some brands that I haven't seen yet on your site yet....such as.... 1) COMME des GARCONS 2) Henrik Vibskov 3) Gaspard Yurkievich 4) Jeremy Scott (Clothing) 5) Kris Van Assche 6) RAF by Raf Simons 7) Y's by Yohji Yamamoto 8) Sonia Rykiel Homme 9) Maison Martin Margiela 10) Paul Smith (Clothing) THANK YOU!

By ohhkevin on October 14, 2009 at 03:44:52 PM

I got the email announcing this ... it read "Party at our place" ... and thought there was a real party at your new physical location. So I was a bit disappointed to realize that the "roof-raising" of the new "digs" is actually just another online destination. Oh well, I'll still look forward to seeing what new stuff you're building, even if there won't be free champagne!

By benneb on October 14, 2009 at 03:49:04 PM

i like the idea of shipping everything you order in the same week at once. this would be both cheaper and greener. its particularly well suited for this site, and i think it could really work out well. It would also encourage people to spend more later in the week if they order something earlier because they are getting "free shipping" on everything else they order for the rest of the week.

By giltinvitenow on October 14, 2009 at 03:54:08 PM

I'm with the overall consensus. This is fabulous. I've enjoyed my orders so far, the Cavalli jeans I got are really nice, and the cargo pants I recently purchased as well. I do see problems in sizing...I'll be taking everything to a tailor to get it right, but it would be nice to get a better idea on length especially. I'm not 6' and never will be, so super long pants not only have fit problems in the legs but the rear as well. Overall though, I've been really digging the website, and you've turned me into a sartorialist for sure. You should think about getting your own credit card...you think we spend money now? LOL.

By tgraphicguru on October 14, 2009 at 03:58:06 PM

Out of curiosity, will the men's shop include the men's sale on Gilt Groupe? Or is it separate? I think it would be a pain if I had two sites to go to. Just out of convenience if one site had all the men's sales, that would be nice.

By guibear on October 14, 2009 at 03:59:41 PM

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING. I can guarantee you your company is losing shyteloads of money by not providing this service. C'mon already.

By design108 on October 14, 2009 at 04:26:04 PM

If you are a member of Gilt- you'll have access to GiltMan (and we'll still have the $25 refer a buddy program to help fill your account with credits.) Thanks for the great suggestions on what brands you like and stuff you want-- you'll be seeing some of the mentioned brands soon. Nate

By nater on October 14, 2009 at 04:35:10 PM

Re Country of Origin comment: If you notice goods made in Italy, UK, most of Europe, USA, etc are stated as such. Typically China, Asia, etc are listed as Imported which is the case with the copy on any other site or catalog from Bergdorf or Saks.

By justin on October 14, 2009 at 04:47:46 PM

Can't wait for our own dedicated site! I do hope that it stays true to Gilt's sleek aesthetic though. I would also love to see high-end electronics and cars through Gilt Man.

By ericbarth on October 14, 2009 at 05:03:02 PM

This is so sweet. Thanks so much for the email notifying me... Now, I'll be able to look for my son Patrick for Christmas..... Now, could we possibly have more for children.. especially little boys who just outgrew Toddler sizes...that would be for the grandsons. I love this site... What you've done makes it possible for some of us to purchase things we otherwise would be unable to.. Sincerely, Marci Duggan Wells, Avon,Ct.

By marciact on October 14, 2009 at 05:10:23 PM

Since I joined Gilt, I've been loving it! Now to hear that there is going to be a Gilt Men's, that's awesome! Every purchase has been great and I have never needed to return anything. Even clothing. Yes, I do agree with some of the guys on here, they're discouraged at times to purchase something because of the return policy. However, I do like the fact you put the model's size as part of the description, as well as the size of the clothing they are wearing and the cut. That's been very helpful! Jonathan, Charlottesville, VA

By saintjon76va on October 14, 2009 at 05:39:29 PM

More items Hell yeah Bring it on Get me a Blackberry App so i can shop on my phone Who cares about Iphone don't have one don't want one just might have to quit my job so i can shop more Wish I could

By jaysonmauck on October 14, 2009 at 05:40:01 PM

Please allow us Canadians with USA mailing addresses to use our credit cards. In this day and age, my VISA should be just as good as your VISA. AMEX anything! It kills me everytime I see what I could possibly be owning... if only I had an American bank account. Let Canadians shop too.

By leisahamre on October 14, 2009 at 05:46:44 PM

For the most part shopping is a pleasure, the site is already one of the easiest to navigate, and though I don't like the idea of not getting a refund for items that don't fit, I don't mind that I get a credit because for sure next week or the day after something will show up that I want to buy. Look forward to all improvements and additional vendors.

By larryhyer on October 14, 2009 at 05:47:33 PM

This sounds great, though I'm not too interested in "gear." As far as return policy, I'm definitely okay with receiving store credit because I shop here often. I can see how it would turn away new and infrequent buyers though. Fit problems happen, though being a short guy I pretty much assume I'll have to have every long sleeved shirt and pair of pants tailored and factor it into the cost. I really like the idea of being able to consolidate shipping though. Being able to combine a week's worth of purchases into a single $10 shipment would be great, especially when I know a sale is coming up that I'm really interested in. I often pass on items under $40 or so if it's the only thing I'm buying, because I don't want 20% of my total cost to be shipping. The other day I bought a ~$15 t-shirt but only because I had already placed an order less than an hour before so I would get free shipping on it. If that was the only item I wanted there is no way I would have purchased it. Keep up the good work!

By briantist on October 14, 2009 at 06:23:46 PM

I understand and sympathize with most of the complaints concerning store credit return policies, shipping, etc. But seriously, I'd much rather have the high-end layout and better clothing selection than a better return policy. I have a feeling that if Gilt started making concessions like that, it might turn in to something like bluefly (*shudder*). Definitely excited about the men's store.

By kambler28 on October 14, 2009 at 06:27:24 PM

hi allyalt, you can *definitely* still shop on giltMan for your man-- we encourage it (and men can still shop for their moms, girlfriends, galpals and daughters on gilt.com-- we are all still one big family just with different needs, once you are a member of one site, you are a member of all the sites!) we will make sure to show some of the men's stuff on the women's site and home stuff on the men's site so you know what's available. nate

By nater on October 14, 2009 at 06:33:24 PM

Also wanted to say that I don't want to see Gilt cluttered up with electronics. Electronics are extremely low margin so I doubt we will anyway, but the iRobot sale was the perfect example of why it's a bad idea. I was very excited for that one because I've wanted a Roomba for years but I actually found prices a few dollars cheaper on the official iRobot web site! I tried to see if the gilt package included extras or something but there wasn't enough information to compare. I could be off-base here, but to me it seems that when it comes to electronics Gilt would be faced with a choice of offering paltry discounts to maintain some small profit, which in my eyes dilutes their "brand" and lowers our trust in their pricing (just look at scarfgate), or make the electronic items a loss-leader and lose money on them. Seems lose-lose to me.

By briantist on October 14, 2009 at 06:36:38 PM

Nater, fellows commenters: I'm in the midst of taking a behavioral economics class (I'm a writer, but used to publish books in cognitive science and philosophy) so I am fascinated by the marketplace you have built. As a shopper, I have been quite careful, based on your return policies. Bearing that in mind, I have purchased a Marc Jacobs tux and a Varvatos woven silk tie. Both met, even exceeded, expectations. I am looking forward to your wider offerings and have the following musings: 1. Quality doesn't demand a high price point, even MRSP. I recently found the +j/Uniqlo line a perfect marriage of craftsmanship/excellent values. Ultimately, I purchased a Chesterfield topcoat, two sportcoats, and two t-shirts. 80% of my purchases are thrift/consignment. Having been in the vintage biz a long time ago, I attach value to garb in very individualistic ways - fit is #1. If it can't be tailored - be gone. Then, of course, workmanship. Innovation. Price exists in parallel. Given this: I ALSO desire goods that begin at a reasonable price. Example: SAVE Khaki. Higher-side of reasonable full price, but timeliness. Giraudon shoes - made in Portugal. Full price is some 30% below comparable quality footwear. I would LOVE to see an affordable folding bike - imagine spending $300, rather than $750! 2. Shipping: Many of us don't live in doorman buildings. Accepting packages is a nightmare. Please offer a Priority Mail option. BTW: Lovely customer service. 3. I'd love to speak with you guys to discuss the strategies of posting goods at noon, your iPhone app and how these effect velocity/sell through. And: Are there gender distinctions? Are men more tentative? Does one gender have a much higher rate of returns? Cheers Jerry

By beaubrummel on October 14, 2009 at 07:37:35 PM

I agree with hernytocha2000. There have been so many times I've wanted to pick up an inexpensive item, but declined because the shipping cost was almost as much as the item itself.

By swagendorf on October 14, 2009 at 07:44:52 PM

The term "imported" is code speak for China. Another way to decode China is to see "Distributed by" "Marketed by or for" = C H I N A. All retailers use it but are too embarrassed to say it. If the country of origin is USA, UK, Belgium or Japan it has cachet and they will make a point of mentioning it. China has no cachet, status or snob appeal and never will for me. The whole human rights, commie government etc comes in to play for me and face it when one spends at the high end level, snob appeal comes in to play to a point. Myself I will not drop 400 bucks on a jacket when I know it cost the equivalent of 2.50 in labor. I have all the clothes I need, so I will be picky. There's not too many things I will take a stand on but no Chinese anything is one of them. I stopped buying Thomas Pink shirts after they off shored to Thailand, I refused to spend 200 bucks plus for a shirt that cost a fraction to make. I like Thailand BTW but not for high end European clothing.

By jamesavilezdsgn on October 14, 2009 at 07:53:03 PM

beaubrummel, I don't know if they've changed things, but if you have a PO Box they will ship it through USPS. I did this once because my building only has 4 apartments and no one around to receive deliveries, but I quickly realized that USPS shipping took several days longer (UPS ground to me out on the island is next day, once they actually ship the item), and instead have packages delivered to my job. A PO Box is pretty cheap if USPS delivery is super important to you, but then you have the issue of getting to the PO before they close.

By briantist on October 14, 2009 at 07:56:21 PM

i've made my first purchase on Gilt today, and am looking forward to wearing the item. however, shipping cost was a little pricey, so that took a bite out of the discount. i'm excited about the Gilt Man site...

By mrnhienle on October 14, 2009 at 08:50:54 PM

rockin cant wait have to quit my job so i can shop fulltime i wish

By jaysonmauck on October 14, 2009 at 09:09:39 PM

hey guys- we have launched a new sizing chart and overlay that should help on sizing. on delivery- I've developed a good relationship with my nearby coffee shop / dry cleaner to catch packages if I'm not there...it works ( tip them well...still less than a doorman tip at the holidays.) love the chatter and ideas, nate

By nater on October 14, 2009 at 09:22:01 PM

This is great, can't wait to be rewarded with more discounts. See thejewishmanslist take on Gilt.com: http://www.thejewishmanslist.com/2009/08/3-giltcom.html

By tjml on October 14, 2009 at 10:36:38 PM

This is great, can't wait to be rewarded with more discounts. See thejewishmanslist.com's take on Gilt.com!

By tjml on October 14, 2009 at 10:39:53 PM

Can I just tell you how frustrated I get when I log into a sale at 11am only to find that most of the items are already marked SOLD! How does this happen?

By cpatterson on October 15, 2009 at 09:18:25 AM

Sales start at 12 pm (eastern) -- try logging in at 12 (et.) Some people consider it sport. nate

By nater on October 15, 2009 at 09:54:54 AM

Sales start at 12 pm (eastern) -- try logging in at 12 (et.) Some people consider it sport. nate

By nater on October 15, 2009 at 09:54:56 AM

Sales start at 12 pm (eastern) -- try logging in at 12 (et.) Some people consider it sport. nate

By nater on October 15, 2009 at 09:54:58 AM

As to the shipping for the t-shirts, Gilt probably loses sales on this one. I buy all of the time, but would never pay $10 for an $18 t-shirt. On the other hand, I'll probably look around for another item to add to my cart b/c it would otherwise be a waste with the shipping. This probably only somewhat takes care of this problem. Perhaps they should introduce a "shipping club" like Amazon where you pay $100 a year for free shipping. The fact that they only offer store credit would negate any worries of people abusing the shipping club system. Glad to see more concentration on men's clothes. Ruelala and Hautelook only sort of cater to men. Two final things: First, I don't like the new weekly e-mails. We used to get real previews of what was on sale. Now they are just links to the "preview" section on the Gilt site. Ruelala does a much better job on the previews! Second, the blog used to be more interesting on photo shoots and interviews with designers . I really liked these parts of the "gilt community." Hopefully, this will be more robust with the new site.

By elegiac on October 15, 2009 at 11:50:54 AM

Either a weekly shipping or a paid club membership with free shipping will work for me. As an example, look at Billion Dollar Babes' VIP program - for only $100/year not only does it offer unlimited free US shipping (and discounted int'l shipping), but also "early bird" access, special VIP-only promos, etc. Given how often many of us shop at Gilt, you'll have a lot of VIPs with perks like that :)

By iyagolnikov on October 15, 2009 at 12:39:28 PM

Great site. It would be cool if you could list all of the items the models are wearing/using. I know some items are added by the stylist's but I've seen some of the models with real nice scarves, etc.

By ldtyson on October 15, 2009 at 04:33:23 PM

Regarding the avoidance of shipping on a $20 tshirt---think of it this way, you are still often getting a $100 tshirt for $32 ($20+12 for shipping), which is an awesome deal!

By ericbarth on October 15, 2009 at 04:54:49 PM

While living in NY, I developed a strong GILT addiction... I am planning on moving back to Canada within a year. I am already anxious about the withdrawal symptoms!!! You have to allow delivery to Canada!!!!! Pleeeeease...

By giltaddict on October 15, 2009 at 07:25:10 PM

My two cents: Please keep the store-credit-only requirement. For those people who want to be able to get full credit card refunds: you're not thinking about the big picture. Limiting returns to store credit is an important limit on flaky shoppers who would make life miserable for everyone else. Imagine if you had to contend with a bunch of people who weren't really sure that they wanted what they were buying, even though you were really devoted to that designer's clothes. They think, "Whatever, I don't actually have to consider what I'm doing," while you think, "I know what I'm doing, and I really will keep this piece." You would wind up losing out to people who didn't value those pieces nearly as much as you, all because they could click faster than you, without being as thoughtful as you. With such a limited supply of each piece, it's only fair to serious customers to make flaky customers think twice before they drop a bunch of money and empty out the stock, knowing they'll just get their money back if things don't work out. And, unlike a typical store, you'd have to then sit and wait for Gilt to put up another sale for that designer before you got another shot. Except even then, the next round of flighty buyers might still beat you to it, and the cycle would continue. What happens, in the long run, is: serious shoppers get so frustrated by competing with non-serious shoppers that they stop bothering with Gilt because they know that the likelihood they'll get a piece has just gone down significantly. The serious shoppers who have actually done the work to figure out how a particular designer's clothes fit, look, etc., get squeezed out by those who don't know anything but buy it on a whim and then just return it later without any consequences. Gilt gets stuck with a bunch of non-committed customers who return more than they keep. Costs go up in dealing with a constant and heavy stream of returns. Those costs may, for instance, result in worse discounts. The site gets a reputation as being a complete crap-shoot, and can't make money, which means it can't save you money. Everybody loses. So the next time you buy something from the site, think to yourself: "With thousands of other customers out there, would I have been able to actually score this jacket or these pants if those other customers didn't have to be careful about what they bought?" The answer is "it would be far more unlikely." Not only would that situation not be fair to you (as an educated, thoughtful buyer), it would be bad business for the reasons I listed above. So keep things as they are, Gilt. Your more discerning buyers will appreciate it and you'll keep a crucial customer base happy. P.S. To those who say "paying $10 shipping for an $18 T-shirt is outrageous," you've got to be kidding. You're paying $10 shipping for a $50 t-shirt that was discounted by $32. So let's do the math - $50 minus $28 means you still save $22. If you know of anywhere else that offers a better deal then tell the rest of us, please.

By funkyzeitmitamir on October 15, 2009 at 10:18:23 PM

Thank you Sue!!!! You told me this was coming a while back and I waited.... and waited.... But it looks like it's all coming together now. Can't wait to see what you have for us!

By pjmott on October 16, 2009 at 07:00:53 PM

to funkyzeitmitamir if you run a business where you sale 20 ($18) shirts and ship them at $10 each but have the option to sale 50 ($18) shirts at a shipping rate of $5. what would you do? think outside of the box.

By hernytocha2000 on October 17, 2009 at 08:14:25 PM

cutteee folding bikess!!!! I totally need folding bikes! thought, why men's? :'( want some pink white girly one~~~

By bunnny on October 17, 2009 at 11:22:39 PM

I second the comment on establishing a relationship with Stone Island / CP Company. I purchased a CP Company shirt at bloomingdales and a Stone Island short all weather gortex hooded jacket at the Barneys warehouse sale. Both items basically fit me (I'm an in shape size 38 or size small) better than most other items I own. (that is natural off the rack fit) Tailoring items for me is ok, but being around 5'9 and a fit 160lb's is tougher than most would imagine in terms of finding a good cut. Even the best tailor sometimes can't fix "shape" I'm tired of the ultra slim stuff. I like just general modern straight slim cut items. Varvatos for example does a very good job with this. It would be cool to see an APC sale Their stuff is fantastic and the fit believe it or not, is pretty true to size, which in the online world, is pretty helpful to know. Acne for example is not. A small should buy a large with some items. I recently tried on an Acne blazer which was the saddest thing I;ve seen. Being a 38 I tried on a 42 and my arm barely made it down the sleeve, but the shoulders were too wide (foot ball wide) I'm not seeing too many 6'4 tall crack head like e.g. 110lbs with broad shoulder Swedes walking around Manhattan. Perhaps they should reconsider who their consumer base is. Many people like to compare these two companies. As for the Gilt process. I have zero complaints and I think their offerings are great. Plus some commentors referenced other sites to buy discount items. Zappos, Yoox, etc. Gilt is superior in terms of the viewing process. I refuse to buy items on line for the reasons many of your complain about above. With Gilt, I can clearly see what it is I am purchasing. The black back drop is very helpful for this reason and having the items on real models is perfect. The store credit is what it is, and as a businessman myself, I clearly understand why they choose this route with returns. I just hold on to it. It's inevitable that I'll spend the money on something else. It's not like I have $2000 in credit, but a few hundred actually is helpful for someone like me. Lastly, with regards to the shipping, I can't see how this is a valid argument for us, the buyers. They pay for return shipping so it's a bit of a moot point.

By michaelcarioti on October 19, 2009 at 12:51:56 PM

It's great to receive the email update re: the Gilt Men site, but too bad I can't click-through, straight to the site. Four clicks later from the main Gilt site, I FINALLY maneuvered my way to the Gilt Man site... sheesh.

By mytchparks on October 19, 2009 at 01:12:22 PM

Well Gilt surely has it's ups and downs, one way to imrpove would be to simply accept Canadian credit cards. You dont need to offer shipping, you dont have to list prices in foreign funds. All you need to do is allow Canadian, or any international credit cards for that matter, to be processed. People will find their own way of shipping the items, and it would open up a large new customer base, and obviously make a few of us happy. Just my two cents.

By pharostomb on October 19, 2009 at 04:13:32 PM

If only you could ship to Canada....

By alexmoskovitz on October 19, 2009 at 05:45:34 PM

im not coming back till its available in Canada. Gilty of being a tease. let me know when you are ready for me :).

By mattdamon666 on October 20, 2009 at 08:53:14 PM

PLEASE SHIP TO CANADA!

By geordyreid on October 24, 2009 at 07:34:55 PM

I love the site but why can't you ship to Toronto, Canada. Customers are paying for shipping anyways so it can't be the cost that is prohibiting you from shipping to Canada. The site is really good and the deals are great it's just the shipping that's the biggest issue. Keep up the good work

By demahwindows on October 29, 2009 at 07:44:27 PM

why not ship to Australia, we love your stock so much ?? :-(

By kangkuru on November 11, 2009 at 12:32:07 PM