Throughout the years, I have been privileged enough to learn just exactly how to "shop". When you hear the word shopping, what do you think of? Most everyone would think of mall shopping. The only kind of mall shopping I really enjoy is a good outlet mall at the end of a season. For the most part, you aren't going to get the best deal while shopping at your local retail mall. I do on occasion have a few stores that I do shop at. Charming Charlie's to be exact. :)
Some things I have learned about shopping:
1. Sale racks do not always mean the "leftover" rack. As I'm sure you all notice, it is August and several stores are already putting out Christmas decorations! This works the same way in retail stores. Swimsuits come out in February, coats come out in early September. Stores must get rid of their current stock to make room for their new seasonal items. I was out shopping today and noticed that most swimwear was 50% off or more. It's still summer!
2. When shopping for a specific item, it is sometimes hard to find a good deal. Before making any large purchase in-store or online, check for any online coupon codes or printable coupons. Hobby Lobby, JoAnn Fabrics, Old Navy, and several other stores almost always have a printable coupon anywhere from 20-60% one item. Try "Google-ing" for coupons next time you plan on making a purchase.
3. "Window shopping" can be lots of fun...and deceiving! We have all done it. We have seen the cute dress in the window of our favorite store. It lures us in, we check the price.. Let's say its $59. But wait, there is a final clearance rack in the very back of the store! Not always, but sometimes there can be very similar items on clearance that very few people even notice. When I'm shopping in retail stores, I usually walk straight to the back of the store, then work my way back out while noticing the clearance signs on the top of racks. Warning: If the rack says 90% off, you better just make yourself comfortable, you may be there awhile. :)
4. Some of my favorite stores are Marshall's, TjMaxx, and HomeGoods. Shopping at these types of stores, you are able to purchase high end, name brand items that you most likely wouldn't have been able to afford to purchase from the actual store it originated from. For instance, I bought a Joe's Jeans leather belt at TjMaxx today for $3. Retail price: $94. No way would I have payed $94 for a belt! I purchased the belt for less money than a Wal-Mart item! I have had several instances like this. I was able to purchase an expensive piece of luggage for my trip to Texas this winter for $30. Retail value was over $200! This winter (off season), I bought a pair of authentic Armani Exchange sunglasses for $5, retail was $110. Less money, better quality. You can't beat that!
And that is why I shop where I shop! I can't tell you how much money my family and I have saved from taking just a little extra time "digging"and not buying the first thing that catches our attention!
Thrift/consignment version coming soon! :)
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