I have a little secret… I am not the only one who loves to bargain shop in my home. My husband has a “bargain shopping addiction.”
It’s true.
If he comes across a great deal on something (anything) he doesn’t hesitate to purchase… even when it comes to women’s fashion! (good for me- he’s got good taste!) I would say that over 65% of my wardrobe are things my husband picked up for me… on sale of course. So, I wasn’t the least bit surprised when I received a gigantic box in the mail of shoes and clothing all from a closeout sale he came across online! (Yes, this does happen on a regular basis) Did I mention that I love him? There were 25 items (including 8 pairs of shoes) that were already on clearance but had an additional Buy-One-Get-One free on it! Killer deal!
Guess what each item averaged to be? $5.69! Did I mention that I love him?
So, I decided to challenge myself and try to come up with two different looks using ONLY the clothes and accessories that came out of this bargain box- and here is what I came up with.
Look one: $33.31
I love these shoes and tights…and the best part they were FREE.99!!
This 7 dollar hat is perfect for covering up a “bad hair day” but still leaving you with a classy look!
Now, for the second look.
I ditched the hat and shoes and accessories and added a jacket, black boots, and different accessories. Taahdah…
Look two: only $31.62
Didn’t he do good?
Furthermore, I decided to consult a shopping expert (AKA my husband) to find out what the best ways are to save when shopping for clothing. Together, we came up with this list of ideas on how to be a Fashionista without breaking the bank:
-Shop at your local thrift or consignment shop (if you can get over them previously being worn…there are amazing things!)
-Try discounted stores such as TjMaxx, Ross, Marshalls, or Burlington Coat Factory (Be prepared to dig a little…but it is so worth it!)
-Go to the Clearance rack first of any store (including the stores mentioned above)
-Subscribe to websites that promote daily deals (ie, Zulily.com, dealnews.com, 6pm.com,whiskeymilitia.com )
-Have a “Dust Collector Party” with friends where you trade clothes you don’t want anymore (I have never hosted one of these parties myself…but will do it and report back)
-Vintage is the rage- so, go through your grandmother’s closet (with permission of course)
-Buy things at the end of the season sale for the next season (especially your classic basics that won’t be out of style)
-Shop at the outlet stores (especially during their sale season before and after holidays)
-Sew your own clothing and accessories (I need help in this area)
-Reuse parts of old clothing to create something new (bring crafting into your wardrobe)
-Add an inexpensive accessory to change the look (my favorite and easiest thing to do)
-Shop at a local vintage shop or flea market (there are some real treasures waiting for you)
-Subscribe to emails of your favorite stores to be aware of the mega sales (maybe have a designated email account for this one)
Okay- did I miss anything?
I’d love to know what you do to save money on your wardrobe!?! Please share with me so I can try it!
For more fashion tips visit me at www.trulymodlydeeply.com
xo
Wendy King says
Whoa! Go Brooks. Really… seriously… holy cow! Will he start shopping for me? I have fond memories of hearing your VA Black Friday midnight shopping tales a few Thanksgivings back. Way to score awesome deals! Loving all the blue shoes.
Cristi Dame says
Wendy- I know right? He is my best kept secret when it comes to my wardrobe. It’s great when you love the same thing as a couple…a family who shops together stays together. (Seriously… he can out shop me any day)
Missy says
Wow! I love a good deal – but these are steals! You have a great eye to put them all together. Thanks for the bargain secrets.
Cristi Dame says
Yes indeed…It’s amazing what you can do with a little variety and a little time- ANYTHING can work!
LauraO says
When I open up the RSS feed in my mailbox, there aren’t any photos. Can you start sending them? It’s always nice to see what’s in store by before clicking. I enjoy instant gratification.
Thanks,
L
AlissaU says
Kudos to Brooks! I love it when a man can
shop chic on a shoestring! And Crisit… I’ve decided you can rock a paperbag! You look A-mazing ALWAYS!
darlene says
nice looks cristi! i love the hat outfit with the blue shoe contrast! it’s all SO affordable!
Pajama Jeans says
Thanks for posting how your husband sees women’s fashion. Do you get to dress him up next? Interesting read.
Liliya says
Amazing outfits! and great deals!! 🙂
How do manage to get free clothes?
Chelsea says
He really does have great taste! My husband has pretty awesome taste, too (and he just knows what I like,) so I lucked out in that department, too. 🙂 I think it depends on the person, but subscribing to lots of different websites and stores that have good deals can actually end up costing you more money in the long run. It’s hard to resist a good deal, and it’s easy to buy things you don’t need and don’t end up using more than a couple of times, so I would say my biggest tip is moderation! I’m a very thrifty person, but if I don’t absolutely need or love something, I’ve learned to leave it for someone else to find. It’s important to feel fabulous in what you put on your body, and that the items you surround yourself with make you happy.