For me, finding great deals happens one of two ways: either trolling online, which I obviously do a lot, or through diligent, time-consuming searches through the clearance racks at my favorite stores (not that I mind, really!). Some of you out there are obviously seasoned deal-grabbers as well—what’s your secret for finding great fashion deals (other than reading TBF, of course)?

I think the first step in finding a great deal is to know what you have and what you need. Shop your closet first. See what needs to go, what needs to stay, what needs to be fixed, and what you need to get. Remember, it’s never a great deal if it’s something you don’t need or want, even if it’s free.

there’s one way: shop, shop and shop. don’t be too lazy to check out every section of the store. there might be just one perfect top or pants that’s sitting there waiting to be picked up. and who knows? it might be on sale too!

There are all sorts of great deals online these days!!!!!!  Subscribing to different websites helps; I feel like I get percent off coupons every day from all sorts of great clothing stores!  One website I found is http://www.jbandme.com.  Every Wednesday they have what they call a “style steal” where they offer one hot item at 50% that day!!!  They also have a great deal of designer items in their Sale section!  They carry everything from denim lines such as Paige, True Religion, and Seven for all Mankind, to great brands as Ella Moss, Velvet and Language! Did I mention Free Shipping and Free Returns!  I love this Site!

If you have a favorite store, make sure you know when they do markdowns. At the Gap I shop at they do their markdowns on Wednesday, so I usually try to shop there Wednesday afternoons. This way the sale selection is still good.

If I see an item that I am just dying to get but can’t afford it at full price, I keep going back each week to check if it went on sale. I do this on-line as well.

Aren’t you afraid that it won’t be there next time?

As a rule of thumb, I try to shop off-season as much as I can.  For example, right now I am already Christmas shopping for my friends and family who love high quality sweaters and outerwear.  You can get things for a steal right now at both the major department stores and off-price discount stores. Last week I found a pair of Seven jeans for myself (YAY) at Burlington Coat Factory for $19.99...that’s a steal!  If I must shop “in-season” I start with thrift and consignment stores first, then head to the discount department stores. 

Jennifer Melnick Carota
Shop Smart GIVE MORE
http://www.theGiftTherapist.com