If you love a good bargain hunt, the Alternative Retail Warehouse Sale in Carlsbad, CA is worth putting on your calendar. This traveling warehouse event hosts different high-end brands throughout the year — from Lululemon to Rent the Runway, Spiritual Gangster, and more. I specifically went for Lululemon this time, but I walked out with a whole lot more insight (and a couple surprises).

First Impressions: Crowded, Organized & Labelled “Like New-Lululemon”

Right when you walk in, you’re met with racks and racks of neatly sorted leggings, jackets, bras, and accessories. The Lululemon section was clearly the star of the show. One thing to note: every Lululemon item is relabeled as “Like New”, since these are part of their official second hand program.

Pricing was simple:

✅ 75% off MSRP on tag for Lululemon

✅ Leggings averaged $30–$40 after markdown

✅ Sports bras and tops were typically under $25

For anyone who buys retail or resells like I do, that’s a solid deal — especially for gently used or like-new condition.

Rent the Runway: 90% Off… But Let’s Talk About Those Price Tags

The biggest surprise of the day wasn’t Lululemon — it was Rent the Runway. They advertised up to 90% off MSRP, which sounds incredible… until you realize many of the MSRP tags were $800–$1,000+.

Example:

Sweaty Betty jacket with an MSRP of $528.00 ➝ 90% off = $52.80 Designer brands like Marni, Rachel Antonoff, VINCE, and Banjanan were also there, many originally priced at $420–$990.

Were the discounts real? Yes.

Were the retail prices a little… optimistic? Also yes.

Still, I scored two pieces I loved, so it wasn’t a total shock, just something shoppers should be aware of.

Most brands were 75%–90% off MSRP and priced fairly, especially compared to traditional outlet stores. Sizes ranged from XXS–XL, but like any warehouse sale, inventory depended on what you grabbed first.

Tips If You’re Planning to Go

✔ Go early on Day 1 — sizes 4–8 in Lululemon disappear first.

✔ Check seams, zippers, and pilling — especially on leggings.

✔ Know your MSRP — don’t rely on inflated tags alone.

✔ Set a budget… or don’t (I didn’t either).

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Alternative Retail sale is a reseller and budget fashion lover’s dream — especially if you’re after Lululemon deals. The Rent the Runway section is fun to browse for designer pieces, but go in with realistic expectations about MSRP.

Would I go again? 100% — especially if they rotate back with Lululemon or bring in brands like Free People, Alo Yoga, or Vuori.

💬 Have you been to one of these warehouse sales? Would you shop “like new-Lululemon”? Let me know — I’m tempted to go back when the next one hits Carlsbad.

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