Lots of people ask me for my top budget tips. Here are a few
from my Budget Shopping Arsenal…
1. Know what looks good on you. This is the
essence of a true fashionista. Just because it looks great in a
magazine doesn’t mean it will look great on you. Be honest with
yourself about your body. It will save you time and money.
2. Get to know the names of sales associates.
Sales associates are a great source for information on upcoming
sales. They might even let you use their employee discount – as
happened to me once at The Gap.
3. Pay for everything with cash. This way, the
satisfaction of the purchase will last longer than your next
credit-card bill.
4. Head to the Outlets. Shopping at the
outlets of your favorite stores and designers can save you a
bundle. Some of my favorites are Off Fifth, the Saks Fifth
Avenue Outlet; the St. John Knit Outlet; the Donna Karan Outlet;
and the Last Call Neiman Marcus Outlet.
5. The 70/30 rule. Fashionistas with limited
budgets should follow the 70/30 rule: 70 percent classic pieces,
30 percent trendy pieces. And go cheap on trendy items.You can
purchase such pieces at stores like H&M, Target , Zara, Bluefly,
Urban Outfitters, etc. Go designer on classic pieces like black
suits (Tahari), coats (Burberry, Max Mara), evening (Armani) and
purses (Coach, Longchamp). 6. Recycle fashion.
Pay a visit to your mother and/or grandmother. While you’re
there, offer to “help” clean out their closets. You’ll be amazed
at the goodies you’ll find. While visiting my grandma in
Milwaukee, I discovered a vintage Coach saddle bag, dating from
around 1960, in mint condition amid a box of old magazines. If
you are unable to visit a relative’s closet, try having a
clothing swap party with your friends. Ask everyone to bring
unwanted, high-quality clothing to exchange for similar items
from other party-goers.
7. Learn where and when to buy. July/August
and late January/February are the best times to hit the stores
for deals. Write down the names of your favorite stores, go to
their Web sites, and register to receive coupons, special
invitations and notifications of new products. Outlet stores are
also great sources of designer goods.
8. Write a List. Making a shopping list will
help you stay focused on the task at hand.
9. Locate the nearest thrift store. Thrift
stores are great for quality inexpensive coats.
10. Sign up for our newsletter at
http://www.thebudgetfashionista.com/bf/newsletter.php. Get free
fashion advice and up-to-date notification of the hottest sales
around the U.S. and Canada.