Macy's downtown Minneapolis is discounting about 50 couture gowns 50 to 90 percent including Vera Wang, lazaro, Romona and Watters. An appointment is needed. Call 612-375-2162.

Since we're thinking couture, the pre-sale at Neiman Marcus' Last Call sale is in progress (Minneapolis, 612-339-2600). The sale doesn't officially start until Wednesday, July 14, so if you beat the rush now, your purchases will be held and charged on the 14th. Everything has been "hard marked" according to store manager Catherine Loose, but items in women's contemporary might get an additional 25 percent discount. Ask a salesperson if you're not sure about contemporary items that qualify. Overall, discounts are up to 65 percent off throughout.