Stalling to Steal Stuff

It's common knowledge that deep in the bowels of every fashion mag, samples "go missing." It's the fashion assistants' dirty little secret that they forget to return said samples, instead taking them out for a night on the town. "Theft" is such a harsh word, really. And according to Style File, this practice has a new name. "Stall to Steal" refers to the excuses that editors and fashion assistants give to publicists about the whereabouts of a garment, bag, or bauble. Sadly, it's unlikely one could use that excuse outside the fashion world, as "stalling to steal" printer cartridges or a suitcase of heroin would likely be frowned upon.