I’ve come to the conclusion that while I’m pretty good with saving money, when it comes to shopping for clothes and accessories I’m a bit of a waster. Seriously, there are things in my closet that still have tags and I’ll consistently forget that I own things. It’s problematic and thus, I’ve been making efforts to try to change my wasteful ways. There are so many ways to save money while shopping without giving up shopping entirely, thank goodness!
Hopefully these money saving shopping tips will help you save some cash. If not, they’ll at least make you question your shopping habits–especially if your closet is overflowing with great deals (like mine).
1. Try it on.
I refuse to purchase any article of clothing without trying it on, because I am so picky. If it looks good on the hanger or amazing on the mannequin, that does not mean it’ll look good on you. If it looks horrible on the hanger, it also doesn’t mean it’ll look horrible on you. Seriously, try everything on. You might not like the cut, length, fabric, etc.
2. Think of at least five times you’ll genuinely wear it.
You can change the five to whatever number you feel is best, but for most things you want to make sure you get your bang for your buck. Exhibit A: I was recently in Forever 21 with my roommate and I tried on this totally not my style white bodycon dress with black flowers on it. My roommate told me I didn’t need it and challenged me to think of three places I’d actually, realistically wear it. I couldn’t think of any except “If I get a fashion internship in NYC this summer, maybe? Then again, it’s white and if I sat on the subway in this it’d be ruined.” Needless to say I didn’t buy them.
3. Just because it’s a great deal, it doesn’t mean you need it.
THIS IS MY WEAKNESS. The “SALE” or “CLEARANCE” tag just pulls me in. I feel a moral obligation to take advantage of a good sale and this is how I end up with a ton of things I don’t particularly love. Don’t let the low price or great value suck you in. If it’s something you love and it’s also on sale,
4. Do you like the garment or just how it looks?
Think about it. Although it sounds a little complicated, it is possible to love the way something looks on you but not love the actual garment. For example, if you try on a V-neck sweater that makes you feel slim and great but you hate the color with your skin tone, it’s a no-go. Look for another color and similar style and so on. Don’t be afraid to say “no” to something you like on you but don’t like, snap a selfie in it and move on.
5. Check the return policy.
Before purchasing anything, look up the return policy or ask the cashier. Some stores only accept returns after a certain number of days and other stores won’t accept returns at all for clearance items or other types of items. Even if you don’t think you’ll return the garment, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
6. Look for sales online.
Before ordering online from any store, Google “*STORE NAME* Coupon code” or “*STORE NAME* free shipping.” Oftentimes you’ll be able to find a 20% off deal or free shipping coupon, even if you can’t at least you can say you tried. Even if you’re in the store, it doesn’t hurt to look up some sales–they can scan coupons from phones now! Technology is amazing.
7. Sign up for mailing lists.
*DJ Khaled voice* MAJOR KEY. Create an email solely for online shopping lists. Only sign into this e-mail when you’re in the mood to shop. This’ll help you avoid flooding your main inbox and will help you avoid temptation when you’re on saving sprees. Seriously, those “FREE SHIPPING NO MINIMUM” e-mails from Forever 21 are like finding gold. E-mail lists often have exclusive discounts, offers and coupon codes that’ll help you save.
8. Go shopping with a game plan.
If you’re going to the mall to find a pea coat, focus on the pea coat. This is nearly impossible, I know, but if you have a plan rather than aimlessly perusing the stores you’re more likely to only buy what you actually need.
9. Bring a very honest friend.
Don’t bring the friend who encourages you to buy everything and ignore saving. Bring that friend who will tell you if you won’t ever wear it outside of the store, bring the friend who knows you have two shirts just like it. You can also bring your mom or S.O.–anyone who’ll give you the truth and help you avoid wasting your money.
10. Avoid the “This would be perfect if…”
This garment will not magically change after you purchase it (unless you get it tailored). If it’s a little bit too tight, don’t buy it. If the color’s not doing it for you, it’s a no. If you have to constantly keep pulling it down or adjusting it, do not buy it! If you’re not in love with the garment as it is and you do not plan on getting it altered, pass on it and save your money.
11. Decide if it’s something you need to splurge or not.
A pair of boots you plan on wearing with every outfit? Splurge. A plain V-neck T-shirt to wear under flannels? Save. Personally I love to buy inexpensive accessories, since I change them up so often and invest in things like winter coats that I know will get a lot of wear and tear.
12. Don’t be afraid to sleep on it.
It most likely won’t go anywhere. I tried on the most amazing white leopard body con dress in H&M. It wasn’t my style at all but I fell in love. It was only $12 but I didn’t think I’d ever wear it so I passed on it and then later that night I knew I had to have it–I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I ended up ordering it online for a few dollars but it definitely was worth it. That’s one instance where I regretted not purchasing the dress, of all of my 19 years I can’t think of any other time I ever regretted passing up on a fashion deal. If you have to think about it, you probably don’t really need it.
