By Invitation Only

Join the most exclusive club in the world may be just a few mouse clicks away. Private shopping with names like Gilt Groupe, Ideeli and Reebonz are gaining popularity online. They offer deeply discounted prices on high-end fashion designer items, travel and services for a limited time only and other retailers sell post season's leftovers at rock-bottom prices.

People who want to join these sites usually need to know a member to join as some sites are by invitation only. Others can register themselves on the waiting lists and wait for available slots to be opened up. Whatever their membership policy, private sale sites are thriving and earning big bucks in spite of the economical instability. Private sales help luxury retailers unload unsold inventory without revealing markdowns to the general public. "It looks like these sites are growing revenues significantly faster than any other part of retail," says JPMorgan retail analyst Brian Tunick.

Cleo magazine featured:


With convenience of shipping services such as vpostUSA, local shoppers are now able to purchase designers and exclusive items from all around the world.

Novia Lim shares 5 of the fastest growing private-sale sites and an attractive deal that can be found on each.

Reebonz

Reebonz caters to private sales for post-season apparels, handbags, accessories, spas, travel, dining packages and experiences.

What you can find there: Gucci
Normal retail price: $686
Private-sale price: $346

Ideeli

New York-based ideeli collaborates with 400 brands and generates more than $50 million in revenue for 2009.

What you can find: Tod's
Normal retail price: $1,490
Private-sale price: $689

Ruelala

Ruelala offers some of the most sought after brands in fashion and home.

GSI CEO Michael Rubin said Rue La La's new way of shopping, using invitation-only private sales, will "continue its remarkable growth trajectory." Rue La La expects to generate more than $100 million in revenue this year.

What you can find: DKNY
Normal retail price: $150
Private-sale price: $69

Gilt Fuse

Gilt Fuse is targeting young, fashionable females and holds sales of brands like BCBG and Juicy Couture.


What you can find: BCBGMAXAZRIA
Normal retail price: $128
Private-sale price: $54

Jetsetter

Jetsetter posts limited-time offers for luxurious resorts and yacht cruises at marked-down prices around 30 - 50% off.


What you can find: Thailand Bangkok - LeBua Suites
Normal retail price: $210
Private-sale price: $125