How to Shop at Off Price Stores

Do you love the thrill of scoring designer clothes at a bargain? Then off-price shopping is probably perfect for you! If you scour the racks at these discount stores, you are sure to find things you love at a fraction of the full retail cost.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wrap dress
• Tank top
• Tights
• Flats
• Large tote bag

1. Set aside at least a few hours for your shopping trip so you will have time to go through all of the racks. Plan to visit just one or two stores at a time, so you can become familiar with their merchandise.

2. Frequent a range of discount and outlet stores like TJMaxx, Marshalls, Off Fifth, Nordstrom's Rack, Neiman Marcus, Last Call and Filene's Basement. Realize that these places are hit and miss. They may have nothing you like one week, and lots of great stuff another. Therefore, you have to check back often to find the best items and at the right prices.

3. Become familiar with the current fashion trends, colors and shapes that are being sold at high end department stores so you will know what sale items to look for, and which ones are already out of date. Generally, try to avoid particularly trendy pieces and stick to classics that you can wear for years to come.

4. Know the names of top designers, to recognize their clothes labels at off-price stores. If you have a general idea of what their merchandise retails for full-price, you will know a great deal when you see it and won't hesitate to buy.

5. Purchase those items you love right away, as the merchandise at many off-price stores rotates quickly as people grab things up. Therefore, you might be sorry if you wait.

6. Check the sale racks often, as returns come in on a regular basis and you may find something great.

7. Carry a large tote bag to hold your purchases if you plan to visit several stores at a time.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear clothes that will make it easy to try things on. A wrap dress is always a good bet. Pair it with tights or leggings so if no fitting room is available, you can slip a pair of pants or skirt on underneath to check the size.
• Plan shoes that are easy to slip off.
• Shop off-season to get the best buys.
• Visit your favorite off-price stores at least once or twice a week to find the best merchandise as soon as it arrives.
• Beware of items that are ripped or otherwise damaged. Always check over the merchandise carefully. Realize that some things are easy fixes, while others may not be worth the effort and expense.

[kt1102]

on 4/22/2008 I can recommend this website for designer clothes:

http://mydesignercloset.ecrater.com/

The mainly sell used designer clothes and bags.