How to Find Designer Brands for Less
Like many of you I am on a strict budget. I look at fashion magazines, films and television and see beautiful clothing and accessories that I can't afford. As a matter of fact most of my wardrobe comes in at around $15 per piece and I make most of my
jewelry
. Over the last year I have found myself wanting some more fashionable pieces (translation expensive) that are made to last longer. It took me a while but I have found a way to have them.
Things You'll Need:
Time
Magazines
Internet Access
Newspapers
Step
1
The first place I check are the outlet stores. These are brand-centric and usually carry the latest fashions at deep discounts. In addition they will often accept gift cards and coupons used in the regular stores. Another plus is they are often located near tourist
destinations
(giving me a chance to combine a beach visit with saving money). Discounts vary from store to store but you can usually count on a savings of at least 20% and up to 90%. Heads up: Check materials for problems. Always try on clothing and shoes (tags may show the wrong size). Look for irregularities.
Step
2
The next stop would be online auction sites. You can usually find really great deals here. Ask questions about the clothing. You want to check for stains, damages and weak fabric. Also, if you are bidding on accessories make sure you know your brand and how to tell if it is authentic or not. Look at the pictures closely. Also, factor in the cost of shipping before bidding. Know the highest price you are willing to pay and subtract the shipping from your total. This is your true highest bid.
Step
3
Another option is to check the want ads in your local papers. Many people will advertise designer clothing and accessories in the paper. It's local. You can examine what you want to buy before buying it and you won't have to pay shipping.
Step
4
Finally, check your local
thrift
stores
. This is my favorite one. The experience feels like a game, especially when you find the prize you wanted. The advantage to shopping the thrift stores is you can take your time going through the merchandise. You are able to inspect it closely for damages and irregularities. On a good day you may also find an incredible bargain with the tags still attached on a name brand designer. Find out what days your thrift stores receive shipments and shop on those days for the best buys. Make sure you keep receipts and tags intact until you have tried on any clothing. Most thrift stores don't allow refunds but will allow exchanges with tags attached for up to 30 days.
Tips & Warnings
The key to finding quality designer fashions at less than discount prices is to know your fashion. You will need to spend time perusing fashion magazines and window shopping the specialty shops in order to learn the names of designers and how to identify their brands.
Be watchful of imposter brands.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2170036_designer-brands-less.html
Like many of you I am on a strict budget. I look at fashion magazines, films and television and see beautiful clothing and accessories that I can't afford. As a matter of fact most of my wardrobe comes in at around $15 per piece and I make most of my
jewelry
. Over the last year I have found myself wanting some more fashionable pieces (translation expensive) that are made to last longer. It took me a while but I have found a way to have them.
Things You'll Need:
Time
Magazines
Internet Access
Newspapers
Step
1
The first place I check are the outlet stores. These are brand-centric and usually carry the latest fashions at deep discounts. In addition they will often accept gift cards and coupons used in the regular stores. Another plus is they are often located near tourist
destinations
(giving me a chance to combine a beach visit with saving money). Discounts vary from store to store but you can usually count on a savings of at least 20% and up to 90%. Heads up: Check materials for problems. Always try on clothing and shoes (tags may show the wrong size). Look for irregularities.
Step
2
The next stop would be online auction sites. You can usually find really great deals here. Ask questions about the clothing. You want to check for stains, damages and weak fabric. Also, if you are bidding on accessories make sure you know your brand and how to tell if it is authentic or not. Look at the pictures closely. Also, factor in the cost of shipping before bidding. Know the highest price you are willing to pay and subtract the shipping from your total. This is your true highest bid.
Step
3
Another option is to check the want ads in your local papers. Many people will advertise designer clothing and accessories in the paper. It's local. You can examine what you want to buy before buying it and you won't have to pay shipping.
Step
4
Finally, check your local
thrift
stores
. This is my favorite one. The experience feels like a game, especially when you find the prize you wanted. The advantage to shopping the thrift stores is you can take your time going through the merchandise. You are able to inspect it closely for damages and irregularities. On a good day you may also find an incredible bargain with the tags still attached on a name brand designer. Find out what days your thrift stores receive shipments and shop on those days for the best buys. Make sure you keep receipts and tags intact until you have tried on any clothing. Most thrift stores don't allow refunds but will allow exchanges with tags attached for up to 30 days.
Tips & Warnings
The key to finding quality designer fashions at less than discount prices is to know your fashion. You will need to spend time perusing fashion magazines and window shopping the specialty shops in order to learn the names of designers and how to identify their brands.
Be watchful of imposter brands.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2170036_designer-brands-less.html
