The Beginner's Guide to Bargain Shopping

When you’re deep in the underbelly of bargain basements, it’s a sight to behold. Shopping on the cheap is a lifestyle and a commitment and the people who are good at it really know their stuff. But what if you’re just getting started? How do you know a good bargain from cheap junk? It’s confusing! Well, don’t fret too much (unless you know of a great bargain wrinkle cream), because we have some truly inspired shopping tips that’ll have you saving dough in no time.

Avoid Cheap Jewelry

Don’t start buying up a bunch of jewelry just because it’s $2. Are you really going to wear something that turns your ears green right away? You’re throwing money away on something you may wear once if at all.

Bet on Sturdy

If it’s a choice between delicate, light fabrics and something sturdy—steer toward sturdy. Something that’ll last long is worth more of your money and pays off in the end.

Check the Seams

Don’t just grab a great dress and walk away. Something cheap will show it’s cheapness in the quality of its seams. The fabric may be bespoke, but if it’s slapped together you’ll regret it later.

Shop Secondhand

You won’t believe what people throw away these days. Secondhand stores are a treasure trove of quality, good clothes. It takes some digging and some patience, but you’re bound to come out with something. 

Explore Your Options

You may go out hoping to find a great pair of shoes, but instead there’s a coat just waiting to be picked up at a great price. Guess what? You still win. Keep your options open and you’ll reap the benefits.

Frequent Shopping

The more you go out looking for a bargain, the more likely you are to find one. This is a great rule, isn’t it?

Go Online

Follow your favorite stores on Twitter and Instagram so no matter where you are you’ll be up-to-date on when sales, clearances, and special shopping events are happening.

Have a Handle on Free Shipping

No better way to save a couple of bucks than by having someone else pick up the tab. Keep an eye out for free shipping on your favorite websites.

Identify Markdown Nights

Some stores start their sales prices on certain nights, so don’t be afraid to ask. For a lot of places it’s Tuesday nights when you’ll see their prices drop.

Just Pay Cash

If you aren’t using your cards, you’ll automatically spend more time instead of more money. After all, little cash piles run out while you can never really tell where you are with a card until the bill comes.