It all started in middle school when Hollister Co. and Abercrombie and Fitch were the rave. My mom thought their prices were insane because all you were paying for was the name. Yet, I insisted on buying all my clothes from there. I began to completely ignore the front of the store and go directly to the back; the clearance section. This was the start of my obsession to getting good deals, only becoming worse with age.
It is the most amazing feeling when someone compliments your outfit. It is an even more amazing feeling when you know you spend next to nothing on it. Whether you want to hear it or not, if you compliment my outfit I will tell you where I got it (usually Target, T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, Old Navy, and even JCPenney) and how much I paid. This is always followed by a wide eyed “How?” or “Let me go shopping with you, please.”
Well you’re about to get the inside scoop because I’m revealing my tips, tricks, and secrets to my savvy shopping.
Dress by WhoWhatWear, $17, from Target | Earrings, $4, from Burlington Coat Factory | Jeans, $15, from Old Navy
Don’t Be Afraid of the Hunt
Getting a good deal most definitely isn’t an easy task. Whether your scrummaging though the clearance section or digging through racks on racks at Goodwill, you’re going to need some time. Yes, sometimes pieces come out of nowhere and are right there in visible eye sight; well that was pure luck, chances are that’s not going to happen. Don’t be overwhelmed by the clearance section. Granted, I know it is most likely a mess, but it’s all part of the search. My only advice would be to go in with a clear mind and plenty of time. As for tips, know what you like, especially if you don’t want to spend the time digging. Scan the racks for fabrics, patterns, etc. that you like and/or stick out to you.
Jacket by Lucky Brand, $24, from Macy’s | Top, $4, from Goodwill
Don’t Limit Yourself to Zara and Topshop
Some of my favorite pieces come from places like JCPenney and Old Navy. Yes, I know you all of you just made the most disgusting look, especially when you read JCPenney. Don’t hate! JCP actually has decent brands with some gems, plus you can use coupons! This Bell Sleeve top for example was on sale for $19.99 from its $40 original price (basically all items are always on sale here). I had an additional $10 off $10 coupon bringing my total to about $10. Let’s just say I have the shirt in black and white and got them both for that price.
Top by Worthington, $10, from JCPenney | Crop Top, $10, Henri Girl
My go to place for pants? You asked for it, Old Navy. Literally all of my pants are from there! Whenever I wear their jeans I always get asked “Are those [fill in the designer brand]?” They were only six dollars on clearance. Oh and Old Navy has Super Cash and sometimes clearance is an extra 50% off. You’re welcome.
Top, $15, from Marshalls | Jeans, $6, from Old Navy | Shoes, $8.00, from Burlington Coat Factory | Earrings, $0.97, from JCPenney
Use Coupons and Sign Up for Newsletters
My friends give me a hard time for looking for coupons where ever I go. I know it’s a mom thing to do for a 22-year-old, but why not? There are apps you can use that make it so easy to find coupons. My personal favorite is Shopular. Basically, if you have a smart phone there is no excuse for not looking!
Top by WhoWhatWear, $17, from Target | Pants, $6, from Goodwill
Here is a breakdown exactly of all the coupons I use regularly:
- JCPenney and Macy’s ALWAYS has coupons online or in their Sunday flyers, and you get more if you have a store credit card. You can find this for many big box or department stores.
- Target’s Cartwheel app: Where you can scan you’re the items you’re getting as you go.
- Shop at Old Navy certain days and get Super Cash and get $10 off $25 or more to redeem between certain dates.
- Goodwill has sales too! Some days the entire store is 50% off (usually around holidays) and other times it’s a discount off certain color tags.
- Ulta also always has at least a 15% off coupon for your beauty needs.
The Best Deals are ALWAYS in Store
They just are, you need to believe me on this one.
Sweater, $8, from Target | Jeans by Levi, $8, from Macys | Shoes, $3, from Old Navy
What super saver tips do you have? Let us know in the comments below!
