The Budget Fashionista

1. Read the Circulars. I know the only thing most of us want to read on christmas day is a gift tag with our names on it. However, if you’re looking to go shopping today (read my opinion about it below), you need to have a strategy. The circulars will give you a scoop on the deals being offered at major stores.

2. Wait Until After the New Year. Personally I like to wait until after the 1st of January to find the real deals. Why, you ask? Well, the holiday falls midweek this year and that means most people took the entire week between Christmas and New Years off. Retailers definitely want to move merchandise, but most will wait to see what the giftcarders do during their week off and save their serious markdowns for the New Year. Plus they’ll be less crowds.

3. Return items ASAP. Receipts have a tendency to get lost (unless you read my book and use an accordion file to arrange your coupons), returning your items as quickly as possible reduces this risk AND makes sure you return it before the deadline.

4. Come prepared. Dress in layers because stores can get crazy hot. Bring a rolling bag, it makes it so much easier to lug your stuff around. Bring water and trail mix, low brain sugar +over heated store+too many shoppers= shopping disaster.

5. Don’t be fooled by the sales sign. Just because something is on sale, that doesn’t mean it’s a bargain. Can you think of at least three places you’ll wear the item? IF the answer is yes, then quickly figure out the cost per wear (Price / # times you’ll wear it), if the cost per wear is less than $3, then it might be a good deal. If not, then leave it on the rack.