Table of Contents

When Are Lululemon Sales? Your Guide to Scoring the Best Deals

Let’s cut to the chase: the most predictable Lululemon sales occur during their “We Made Too Much” (WMTM) section updates, which happen every Thursday around 11 AM EST. Beyond this reliable weekly event, keep an eye out for significant markdowns during major holidays and seasonal changes. Lululemon, while famously tight-lipped about scheduled sales, does offer opportunities to snag coveted items at discounted prices if you know where and when to look.

Decoding Lululemon’s Sale Strategy

Lululemon’s approach to sales is decidedly different from most retailers. They don’t plaster their windows with “SALE!” signs or announce upcoming promotions weeks in advance. This air of exclusivity is part of their brand appeal. However, strategic shoppers know that deals do exist. Understanding their tactics is crucial to maximizing your savings.

The Power of “We Made Too Much”

The “We Made Too Much” (WMTM) section is your bread and butter for finding Lululemon discounts. It’s essentially their clearance section, featuring items that are either overstocked, discontinued colors, or have slight imperfections.

Weekly Thursday Drops: As mentioned, new items are added to the WMTM section every Thursday around 11 AM EST. This is prime time to browse, as popular sizes and colors disappear quickly. Set a reminder and make it a weekly ritual!
Online and In-Store: WMTM is available both online at Lululemon.com and in physical stores. Selection varies between the two, so it’s worth checking both if you’re on the hunt for something specific.
Irregular Timing: While Thursdays are the norm, Lululemon sometimes deviates from this schedule. Keep an eye on social media and Lululemon-focused communities (Reddit, Facebook groups) for whispers of unscheduled drops.

Capitalizing on Seasonal Changes and Holidays

While Lululemon doesn’t officially announce “Summer Sales” or “Black Friday Deals” in the traditional sense, they do offer increased WMTM inventory around key seasonal shifts and holidays.

Post-Holiday Sales: Expect a boost in WMTM items after major holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Labor Day. This is when they clear out remaining seasonal inventory.
End-of-Season Clearances: As seasons change (e.g., winter to spring, summer to fall), Lululemon will often add more seasonal apparel to WMTM.
Black Friday & Cyber Monday: While not explicitly advertised as “Black Friday,” Lululemon typically offers some form of discount during this period, usually through increased WMTM selection. Expect items to sell out incredibly fast.
Warehouse Sales (In-Person): Lululemon occasionally hosts in-person warehouse sales in select locations. These are usually announced with very little notice, so sign up for their email list and follow local Lululemon stores on social media to stay informed. These sales offer deep discounts but often involve long lines and limited sizes.

Leveraging Other Strategies

Beyond the predictable patterns, here are a few other ways to potentially save on Lululemon gear:

Outlet Stores: Lululemon has a limited number of outlet stores that offer discounted merchandise. These are usually located in outlet malls. Selection can be hit or miss, but the prices are generally lower than WMTM.
Sweat Collective Discount: If you’re a fitness instructor or work in the fitness industry, you may be eligible for the Sweat Collective program, which offers a significant discount (typically 25%) on full-priced items.
Military Discount: Lululemon offers a military discount (usually 15%) to eligible service members and veterans.
First Responder Discount: Lululemon also offers a first responder discount (usually 15%) to those that are eligible.
Employee Discount: This is the holy grail for Lululemon fans. If you know someone who works at Lululemon, they can often get you a significant discount (around 40%) on merchandise.
Pre-Owned Marketplaces: Consider buying pre-owned Lululemon items on websites like Poshmark, eBay, or ThredUp. You can often find gently used items at a fraction of the retail price.

FAQs: Your Lululemon Sale Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about Lululemon sales to further enhance your shopping expertise:

FAQ 1: What exactly is “We Made Too Much”?

Answer: “We Made Too Much” (WMTM) is Lululemon’s clearance section, featuring items they have overstocked, are discontinuing, or have slight imperfections. It’s where you’ll find the most consistent discounts.

FAQ 2: How often does Lululemon update the “We Made Too Much” section?

Answer: Lululemon typically updates the “We Made Too Much” section every Thursday around 11 AM EST. This is the best time to check for new markdowns.

FAQ 3: Are “We Made Too Much” items final sale?

Answer: Final sale policies vary, so it’s essential to check the specific item’s description on the website. Some WMTM items are indeed final sale, while others may be eligible for return or exchange.

FAQ 4: Does Lululemon price match?

Answer: No, Lululemon does not offer price matching. They do not match prices from other retailers or even their own previous prices.

FAQ 5: How can I find out about Lululemon warehouse sales?

Answer: Warehouse sales are often announced with little notice. The best way to stay informed is to sign up for Lululemon’s email list and follow your local Lululemon stores on social media (Instagram, Facebook). Also, keep an eye on local event listings and online forums.

FAQ 6: What is the Lululemon Sweat Collective?

Answer: The Sweat Collective is Lululemon’s program for fitness instructors and individuals working in the fitness industry. Members receive a discount (typically 25%) on full-priced items.

FAQ 7: How do I become a member of the Lululemon Sweat Collective?

Answer: To apply for the Sweat Collective, visit the Lululemon website and look for the “Sweat Collective” page. You’ll need to provide proof of your fitness professional status, such as a certification or employment verification.

FAQ 8: Does Lululemon offer a student discount?

Answer: No, Lululemon does not currently offer a student discount.

FAQ 9: Does Lululemon offer free shipping?

Answer: Yes, Lululemon offers free shipping on orders that meet a certain minimum purchase amount (usually $75 or more). Check their website for the current threshold.

FAQ 10: What is Lululemon’s return policy?

Answer: Lululemon’s return policy generally allows you to return or exchange items within 30 days of purchase, provided they are unworn, unwashed, and have the original tags attached. However, final sale items are not eligible for return or exchange. Always check the specific return policy on the Lululemon website.

FAQ 11: Are Lululemon outlet stores worth visiting?

Answer: Yes, Lululemon outlet stores can be worth visiting if you’re looking for discounted merchandise. The selection can vary, but you’ll generally find lower prices than in regular Lululemon stores or on the WMTM section online.

FAQ 12: How can I spot fake Lululemon items?

Answer: To avoid purchasing fake Lululemon items, only buy from authorized retailers (Lululemon stores, Lululemon.com) or reputable resellers. Look for the correct logo placement and quality stitching. Check the fabric content and compare it to the official product description. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Examining the hangtags and care labels can also reveal inconsistencies indicative of a counterfeit item.

By following these strategies and staying informed, you can become a savvy Lululemon shopper and score amazing deals on your favorite athletic apparel. Happy hunting!