How to Shop for Designer Clothing on a Budget
Designer prices often leave us stunned and gasping for air. The antidote for sticker shock lies somewhere between outlets, e-commerce and consignment shops. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Men's Dress Shirts
- Men's Dress Sweater
- Mens' Dress Pants
- Women's Dress Coats
- Women's Dress Pants
- Women's Dress Shirts
- dresses and skirts
Instructions
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Figure out the clearance sale schedule of your favorite designer's store, or the high-end boutiques and specialty stores in your area. Many stick to January for spring/summer items and July for fall/winter items, while others may have an annual clearance weekend where surplus goods are priced to sell.
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Remember that high-end designer outlets are often tucked far away from urban areas where department stores sell the same merchandise. Visit the outlets nearest to you (or in the vicinity of your next vacation spot) for the biggest selection of designer duds.
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Make sales associates your ally - they know what's available, when it will be marked down, and how to keep reduced items from landing in someone else's closet. Get on the mailing list of your favorite stores to receive postcards and announcements for sales and clearance days.
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Log on and check out the items being sold in classified ads, auction houses and online outlets. You'll discover everything from handbags and shoes to evening gowns and hair accessories.
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Visit a consignment shop in an affluent area. Many customers wear items once or twice before sending them to consignment in favor of the latest trends.
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Tips & Warnings
Make a habit to shop out of season. You may not want to think about cashmere sweaters or riding boots in the middle of July, but that's when you're likely to realize the greatest savings.
Consider alterations on pieces that don't quite fit. Even with a nominal fee for tailoring, you may still save a significant amount.
Examine secondhand merchandise very carefully for damages like stains, tears and separating seams.
Many outlet stores end up with irregulars. Try everything on to ensure proper fit and examine carefully for damages.
Always shop with secure online sites.
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Comments
View all 6 Comments-
kt1102
Apr 22, 2008
There is a great website -
kt1102
Apr 22, 2008
There is a great website
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Chrissierulz
May 08, 2007
Sample sales are the way to go. Although beware of website such as ebay. All in all, the best way to buy any valued piece of clothing is for us see and feel it with our own eyes. And the obvious if you are planning on purchasing via auction sites- check feedback ratings and beware of fakes!
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Nov 22, 2005
If you really want the latest styles, buy basic clothes that aren't brand names, like black dress pants, cardigans, shoes, etc., and buy the key, attention-getting clothes in occasional splurges at brand-name stores.
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Nov 22, 2005
Sometimes there may be an item with minor damage (missing button, loose seam, etc.) Never hurts to ask for a discount on a "damaged" item. Why pay full price for imperfection? I've gotten discounts on items, esp. if it was the last one of a size or color.
