We recently had the opportunity to join Gilt.com, an invitation-only shopping site that offers luxury brands such as Botkier, Catherine Malandrino, Charriol, Thakoon and Vera Wang for up to 70 percent off. The site gives us a sample-sale experience minus the stress of fighting off other bargain hunters — deals on fashions and accessories for men, women and children (as well as on home accessories) are at our fingertips, anywhere.

Now it’s available for you as well: VIV Says readers get access to a VIP link to join Gilt. As a member, you’ll see an average of 15–17 sales per week, each lasting 36 hours and starting at noon EST. If you have your heart set on something, don’t hesitate —  many items sell out in the first few hours. Recent finds have included a Vera Wang silk cocktail dress for $528 (original price: $1,595), a Charlotte Ronson wool coat for $138 (original price: $475) and a Sofia Cashmere cable blanket for $325 (original price: $950). To find out when your favorite designers will be featured, check out the sales calendar on Gilt’s home page.

We love the idea of getting designer bargains from the comfort of our laptop. What’s your favorite way to shop — in stores or online?

Tags: Business, Catherine Malandrino, Charriol, Culture, designer, Ronson, Thakoon Panichgul, Thakoon Wang, USD, Vera Wang