My Shopping Tips- Part 1

I said in my previous post I would make my next post "where, when and how to shop for cheap stuff but look awesome" so here it is! I actually came up with 12 so I'm splitting in into 2 posts. There was too much text for my liking.


1.       Take some time to look at fashion blogs/pinterest.

This is a double edge sword because doing so makes me want to shop but it also gives me ton of new ideas and ways to wear clothes I already have. Mixing patterns has been a big trend lately and when other people do it you get to see how it looks before you go out in public looking like a fool. It has helped me double my wardrobe (again, because I end up shopping) but mostly because I find new ways to wear things I already own. Follow me on Pinterest here.
Here are just a few of my favorite blogs-
VIVALUXURY
Sequins and Stilettos
Twenties Girl Style
Lilly's Style
What She Wore 365
J's Everyday Fashion

2.       Make Marshalls and T.J. Maxx your best friends

I loveee both these stores. I can confidently say at least half the things in my closet (shoes included) are from one or the other. What I love about these stores is that they have well known name brands AND random companies too. I always start with the brands I recognize but then I come across something AWESOME and it’s a name I don’t recognize but that only means it’s even cheaper!

3.       Don’t be afraid to look through consignment/second hand shops

There are probably a ton of places around your area that sell second hand clothes. I know it can seem sketchy but the first time you go in one and find a pair of True Religion jeans for $20 (found!) with the original tags on them or vintage Manolos that are still in their box for $80 (super jealous of my girlfriend who found those) you’ll get over it. Plato’s Closet is a chain consignment store that I’ve had awesome luck in from CT to St. Louis! I’ve sold clothes at various consignment stores and honestly they are almost always overly picky. They don’t want anything that looks old or worn out. If it weirds you out that someone else was wearing the clothes wash it when you get home and think about it this way- those brand new J. Crew shorts you just bought were probably tried on by someone before you bought them. And they were still $55.

4.       Think basic

This is getting harder since patterns are everywhere but try and keep your purchases neutral; and I don’t necessarily mean neutral colors. Things like blouses, dark skinny jeans can be worn almost all season, any season and in a bunch of different contexts. Another tip: have at least 3 white v-neck tees that are comfy, and a few steps up from the Hanes tagless ones from Target (which I have a million of) they are the EASIEST item to dress up or down and they pretty much go with everything you could own. And I say have 3 because once you have them you’ll be surprised how often you reach for them.
Here are my favorite basics:

My Favorite Basics by easypeasyglam featuring glamorous dresses

5.       Plan outfits as you shop

The only time I go out with a shopping list is when I go grocery shopping and even then I never stick to it so having a shopping list for the mall is a joke. What I DO try and keep in mind though, is what I want to accomplish. Usually I have a few specific things I will keep my eye out for but I always find something new that I “need.” When those items come up I try and think about my closet, or other things I would be willing to purchase in order to wear a certain item. If there aren’t many things you can wear it with then check the price. If you love it and it’s cheap- get it. Life is short. But if it’s not worth the cash put it back. You’ll find something else that you’ll fall in love with in the nexk rack.

6.       Coupons/discount codes

I do a lot of online shopping and what I typicall do right before I check out is google “_(name of store)_ coupon codes” and you’d be surprised how often things come up! If you’re planning on shopping the old fashioned way google “printable coupons” and now (since technology is outrageous) even if you don’t have a printer, you can usually bring the coupons up on your phone and they can scan the barcode right there!!