Saving money matters to the typical college student. Especially to fellow collegiettes who love to shop and score name brand tags. Nothing is more satisfying then waltzing out of the store with a new clothing item that was made for you, and saving money on the product is a BIG bonus. So, next time you’re ransacking your closet and complaining that you have no clothes for a party, date or big event (we’ve all been there!) remember this article. Read about all of the tips, tricks and secrets to guilt-free retail therapy.
1) The Trinity of Budget Shoppers: Coupons, Free Shipping, and Clearance Racks
Before even looking at any full-priced items displayed (purposely) at the front of the store, travel to the back where all the good deals are hidden. A good rule of thumb is to always search the clearance racks to find what you’re looking for before you even step foot in the full-priced areas. Same goes for online, check the clearance/sale tabs FIRST.
Move that cursor away from the checkout button, and check coupon websites like Groupon, Retail Me Not, and Coupons.com. My personal favorite is Retail Me Not, and I find it works best for online purchases because in-store discounts are usually well advertised. Online discounts almost always require a code which is why Retail Me Not is so helpful.
“Free shipping” is a savvy shopper’s favorite two words. Shipping costs add up, which is why free shipping deals are crucial. Retail Me Not might offer them, or you may have to spend a certain amount to be awarded free shipping. Sometimes stores offer free shipping and no minimum purchase, which is even better.
I, personally, love GAP true skinny jeans. Unfortunately, full price for one pair of true skinny jeans ranges from $69.95-$99. So, as soon as I enter the store I always go straight to the clearance rack. I found the pair of jeans below for $25 (regularly priced $79.95) with an extra 20% off via in-store promotion.
2) Websites for Discount Clothing
There are tons of websites that offer significant discounts on clothing. I generally use websites like eBay and ThredUp. On eBay, you are able to bid on unwanted and unused items, which allows for even greater savings. When I’m eBay shopping I like to use the filters to browse only new items (either with or without tag) listed by sellers that accept the best offer so I can decide how much I am willing to spend. Make sure you calculate shipping costs into the price you are willing to spend on an item! So for example, this Free People top is already fairly priced at $12.34 with free shipping (regularly priced $74) but you could most likely win the item for even cheaper if you are the only bidder.
ThredUp is an online second-hand store that carries name brand clothing in good condition. All you have to do is create an account, and you get 40% off your first order. On websites like ThredUp and eBay, it takes time to search through thousands of products, but the savings are great. This Urban Outfitters Kimchi Blue Blouse is 52% off the original price.
3) Local Consignment/Thrift Shopping
Can we go thrift shopping? Siena College is close to so many high-quality consignment shops, like my favorites: Plato’s Closet and Fifi’s Frocks and Frills. Thrift shopping saves money and at the same time increases your vintage collection. First, there’s the classic option, Goodwill. I scored this vintage Nike windbreaker for $10.
Second, is Plato’s Closet. The shop is four miles from our campus on Central Avenue. Plato’s Closet has brands like American Eagle, H&M, Forever 21, Express, and many others. Check out my finds below:
H&M Divided Skirt (paid $10; originally $25) and Victoria’s Secret Satin Wide Leg Pants (paid $2.50 at Fifi’s)
Apt 9 Fur Vest (paid $15; originally $60)
Express Booties (paid $15; originally $80)
Third, is Fifi’s Frocks and Frills. The designer consignment shop is located about 8 miles away from Siena on Western Avenue. Fifi’s is a more high-end consignment shop with brands like LOFT, Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Banana Republic, etc. This weekend they had a fill-the-bag sale. An entire shopping bag of clothes from the clearance section was only $25. My friends and I found 10 items all for $25 (that’s $2.50 a piece!)
INC International Concepts Tie-Dye Pants (paid $2.50; originally $69.50)
H&M Denim Blazer (paid $2.50)
Ann Taylor LOFT Striped Capri Pants (paid $2.50) and Banana Republic V-Neck Tank (paid $2.50)