Frugal
1.) Forever 21
This store is an oldie but a goodie. They have a great “online only” section with items that you wouldn’t find in the store and their prices can’t be beat. However, proceed with caution when it comes to sizing. Make sure you choose the correct size for you, as their clothes can sometimes run too small, too big, or just might not look right when you try them on at home. The one thing that’s a bit annoying about Forever 21 though, is their “no cash back,” policy. You can only receive store credit, which is fine, but sometimes you’d rather just have the cash!
2.) Ann Taylor Loft
I have said it before and I’ll say it again: there is ALWAYS a sale going on at the LOFT. Though their pieces are more mature and perfect for an upcoming internship or job, they also do have some nice, casual stuff you can lounge in. I’ve scored some great sweaters and t-shirts. With a flattering fit, and good quality of clothes, I find everything from the LOFT just gets better as time goes by.
3.) Haute Look
Haute Look is a great website that works just like Rue La La; you sign up and then get e-mail notifications about upcoming lines that will be featured on the site. I go here when I want to find different, funky pieces to refresh my wardrobe. They have a great variety of name brands as well as smaller, quirky upcoming ones. The only downsides to Haute Look are that they have a limited supply of goods, and each line is only available for a few days. So, if you see something you love you should buy it then and there.
4.) ASOS
ASOS stands for, “As Seen On Stars,” and has something for every price range and style. This is one of my favorite sites to browse, because their inventory is constantly changing, with both classic and on trend pieces to choose from. Currently, I love their shoe and bag sections, as I’m on the lookout for a new purse for spring!
And for when you’re pretending that your paycheck has four zero’s on the end instead of two…
Fantasy
1.) Bloomingdales
Ahhh Bloomies, the store with the wonderful brown bag. I just love putting all my dream items in a cart and watching the total go up. Carrying every designer known to woman, the Bloomingdales website is an escape for every label lover.
2.) Designer Websites
Ladies, pick your poison. Mine is a three-way tie between the Chanel, Marc Jacobs and Isabel Marant sites. Until I make the big bucks, I will only be seeing these designer garments on my computer screen…and in my dreams.
This line is very rock and roll with edgy silhouettes, a muted, dark palette of grays, blacks and browns, and a hefty price tag. I love looking at this site to see if I can score any deals in the sale section. However, most of the time, I try to recreate the looks with cheaper pieces I find elsewhere.
4.) Frye Boots
Recently, I have become obsessed with Frye boots and am saving up for a pair. Sadly, due to my lack of money and the fact that I’m more of a spender than a saver, I have a feeling I’ll be saving for a while. Until then, looking at the site will have to be enough.
Maybe you have some of your own favorite frugals or fantasies. If so, leave comments here so all of our readers can indulge in some good old online shopping!