- Do I need it? When I find something I like, I immediately ask myself if I really need yet another one of it. If I already have something like it, do I wear it a lot? Do I find myself reaching for it a lot? I always have a running list of items I am looking for - some have been on the list awhile (grey suede pointed toe pumps) while others are new (Rebecca Minkoff MAC bag)
- Is the price right? Sometimes you buy just because it is *insert brand name here* for ONLY *price*. But, will you really wear it it? Or are you just buying on the price? At the same time, you can take some fashion risks if the price is right. Take these gold Rag & Bone Newbury boots for example. They had a few pairs at my home TJMaxx for about $150. They're cute, but I wasn't sure how much I would wear them. When I was home after the New Year, they went down to $100. I have my mom checking every so often. If they are still there and $50, I would buy them. They are fun - and Steelers colors! However, I would have never bought for the original price of $550.
- Make yourself a list -- of items you are looking for and want. Nordstrom has an amazing return policy, so it makes some finds at the Rack better than what you would find at other discount retailers. They are marked "Worn and Refinished" - typically they are items that were bought and the person decided they didn't want them after using them once or they were a floor model. I've gotten some amazing deals and read about even more amazing deals from some of the ladies over at the Purse Forum. Recent finds include Rag & Bone Harrow booties, Ivanka Trump nude pumps for my sister, a pair of Citizens of Humanity jeans, and a Celine bag (that was seriously scratched up - I went two days in a row and it was gone the next day). Some items on my list include items I'm just on the look out for, some at the right price, and others are items I would only hope to find in my size worn & refinished. Highlights include:
- Think on it. A lot of my purchases are in pulse buys, and I've cut down on them considerably. Text a friend, sister, or mom to see if they think it's a good purchase. Luckily, most stores have great return policies. Take it home, try it on with your clothes, and your lighting to see if you really can see it in your wardrobe.
- Don't underestimate department stores. Figure out when stores have their best deals -- Saks always has amazing sales on December 26th and around New Years. They are typically around an additional 50% off sale. My sister got some amazing gowns at Saks for $100 -- which is less than a lot of the dresses on Rent the Runway. Check in store and online, if possible. But I find most of the deals are in store. Bloomingdales had an additional 50% off shoes -- there were dressy shoes for formal events under $50, Sperry's for $30. It's really the time to stock up! If you know you have an event coming up (wedding, prom, gala, etc.), its best to buy in advance. I bought my prom dress from BCBG in January/February for around $75 while all my friends paid full price when they went shopping in April.
- It's ok to splurge every once in awhile. I had my eye on the Christian Louboutin Simple Pumps for years. I finally bit the bullet and bought a pair in black around Christmas. Of course, I can't wear them at the moment with all the snow - but I know they'll be a classic shoe that I'll have forever.
- Don't buy if it doesn't fit -- I've bought shoes and clothing that is too big and some that is too small. Luckily, I have a younger sister who enjoys it. But I never get what I paid for it on eBay or at consignment stores. If it doesn't fit, you won't wear it no matter how good of a deal it is.
- eBay plans don't work out as expected. I've bought stuff with the intention of putting it on eBay. I typically don't make the money and it goes back (thank goodness for return policies!) or I don't make nearly as much as anticipated. $20 is not enough for the stress and time it takes to list an item, answer questions, ship, and all the other good stuff that comes with eBay. Only buy it if you know you'll find a good home for it (whether it is you, a family member, or friend).
- Visit these stores frequently! Most of these stores get new merchandise in on a weekly or daily basis. Follow your favorite store on social media and don't be afraid to just pop in if you have an extra 10 minutes. Becoming friends with the sales people will probably help you in this case!
- Have fun with your shopping, and don't be afraid to take risks! I've bought items I wasn't sure how often I would wear and they have become some of the most worn items in my closet. You don't have to spend thousands on your clothes to feel your best.
My favorite bargain buy? A TSE Black Cashmere Cardigan that would probably retail for over $400 for $20. I wear it all the time. Super soft, classic, and one of my favorite sweaters to wear in the winter.
Happy Shopping!
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