I can’t help but fall for a great deal when it comes to shopping. What’s better than finding exactly what you want at half priced or finding something you never expected to buy for a bargain. Since most of us aren’t privy to a large bank account, finding ways to pull off a great look for less is always a bonus.
In my early years working in retail, I learned that a lot of larger clothing stores are often overstocked with product. This means that it will inevitably go on sale. When sales come around, most of the stock out on the floor is a combination of items from sometimes this season and even past seasons. I was also recently tipped off by a salesperson while shopping (and no I can’t tell you where he works!) that fall products on sale during the summer will often be integrated back into the fall collection at full price.
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To help you with sale season, here are some tips to shop smart on a budget:
1. Go straight to the sale section first. Avoid being distracted and stay focused.
2. I also like to shop in the mornings to avoid crowds and the stores are usually more organized and stocked.
3. Designer sales are often the hard to resist when it’s 50% off. Remember that even though the discount may be higher, the item was probably higher in priced originally which can still cost you your whole shopping budget if you decide to buy that item.
Photo (above): Elizabeth and James White Blazer from Net-A-Porter. Regular: $445 (Sale: $200.25).
4. Try online shopping for great deals. Websites often based in the states have a wider selection of items (even designer items) compared to Canada. Often, if you spend over a certain amount, the shipping is free. Make sure that they have an exchange or credit policy just in case sizing gets tricky.
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5. Find items that are great transitional pieces which will last you through seasons and spend a little more on that. If you’re into trying something on the trendy side but unsure if you’re going to stick with it, go with a lower price point for those items. You don’t want to over commit right out of the gate.
6. Warehouse sales are also great but only come around so often. When they do, be sure to take full advantage of them. Follow your favorite stores on social media to keep up on when they have their sales.
Now that you’re equipped with some key tools on sale shopping, it’s time to reap the rewards on responsible shopping and get in on some great bargains.
BEST BEST EDIT OF THE MONTH:
Photo (above): Rebecca Rawlinson in Camilla and Marc leopard blazer. Regular: $795 (Sale: $477). Available at Rebecca Bree 3680 West 4th Ave, Vancouver.
Photo (above): Rebecca Rawlinson in A.L.C. top Regular $325 (Sale: $260) and A.L.C. leopard pants Regular: $425 (Sale: $212.50). Available at Rebecca Bree 3680 West 4th Ave, Vancouver.
Photo (above): Rebecca Rawlinson in Mother of Pearl fruit dress. Regular: $895 (Sale: $626.50) Available at Rebecca Bree 3680 West 4th Ave, Vancouver.
Photo (above): J Crew pencil skirt from J Crew Factory online. Regular: $88 (Sale: $41.99).
Photo (above): Dooney & Bourke handbag from Shopstyle. Regular: $177 (Sale: 133.50).
Photo (above): Elizabeth and James skirt from Net-A-Porter. Regular: $275 (Sale: $123.75).
Photo (above): Schutz Garoa Laser Cut Sandals from Shopstyle. Regular: $200 (Sale: $140).
Amy Yew is a contributing columnist at Vancouver Courier and a fashion and style writer. She is also a Lucky Magazine community contributor. Tell us what you think and submit any questions you have to amyvancouvercourier@gmail.com. You can also tweet your thoughts @AmyYew.
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