Shopping 101 - Saving Strategy

Say I am looking for a high-waisted pencil skirt but I don't need a Zac Posen design. It just needs to look expensive right? Here is my strategy. I will go to Norstrom for a piece like this since I know that they have several departments that I can search through. I will start on the top floor, Brass Plum. Yes - I know, it's a Junior department and I'm 27 years old. I'm not in denial and I'm not delusional. It's worth trying because I would rather get a larger size here and save $40-$100. If the quality of the garment isn't up to par then I venture to the next department.

Let me give you another example. If I need a long sleeve tee, I will go to Old Navy first, then the Gap, and then Banana. I am not going to start at the top of the pricing hierarchy if I can get what I need at the lowest price point.

Have a garment in mind that you are looking for and don't know where to start? Ask Bargain Babe!

Quick Links to Shopping Splurges and Savings

If you feel like a splurge here is your one stop shopping destination for clothing, accessories, shoes and more:

http://www.couturecandy.com/

If you have hours to kill on a rainy Saturday or Sunday try out one of my personal faves on the third floor of Century 21 Department store. (Don't miss the shoes either) I know the hot spots in the store, so skip the digging and ask the Bargain Babe where to shop within the store before you go. I'll save you time and energy.

http://www.c21stores.com/

Some of my girlfriends and stylish moms that I know prefer Loehmann's. For me, it's hit or miss - and I'm NOT a fan of the open style fitting room. If you have no shame, or no need to try on altogether, check it out:

http://www.loehmanns.com/

Another old fave is Fox's. This store caters to a 35-60 demographic, but if I am looking for something Cache-ish, this is my store.

http://www.foxs.com/

Do you have a favorite store? Let me know about it!