If you're like me and like to shop, but don't want to spend too much, then these 7 tips are for you! I've learned a lot of ways over the years to get cute clothes and fill my closet while still coming in under budget.
Outfit details: Bralette from Gypsy Creek Boutique // Sandals from Urban OG //
1. Plato's Closet
I've been shopping and selling clothes at my local Plato's Closet since my later high school years. I remember the first time I walked into Plato's and saw this cute Abercrombie skirt and was so excited when it was only $10! Since them, I've been hooked. I've always been a deal girl, hitting up garage sales and finding sale items, so this store couldn't have been more perfect for me. I try and bring a bag (or two) of clothes to sell, about every other time I go. And then I put that amount of money towards my purchase, and a lot of the time it fully covers my new clothes or at least a good chunk of it. You only make a few dollars off each clothing item you sell, but the flip side is that when you buy clothes, they are pretty cheap. From designer jeans, to Free People dresses, to Steve Madden booties, I've found it all over the years, and it's saved me SO much money. I have expensive taste on an inexpensive budget, so finding name brand items like this is a major score!
2. Poshmark
Poshmark is a newer outlet for shopping for me. It came out a few years ago, and I didn't really know about it until maybe a little over a year ago. It's great for selling clothes, because you make a bigger amount then you would if you brought it to Plato's Closet to sell. My favorite finds on their so far are Show Me Your Mumu clothes, Quay Australia sunglasses, Latigo sandals, and swim suits. Pretty much any time I need something specific, I search on Poshmark and usually find it. It's cool too because you can make an offer first and try to bargain with the seller.
3. Thrift Stores
I think you all already know how much I love thrift stores haha. People always tell me that they never find anything cute at thrift stores so they give up. But you have to be patient and make frequent thrift store trips to have better odds of finding good stuff! My mom and I go about 2-3 times per month, depending on if we need something or how much free time we have. I found so much of my wedding decor there, and wedding decor for friends of mine who are getting married this year. On top of that, I've found SO many cute clothes. I love thrifted dresses; the more 90's the better! You can see all of my thrifted outfit posts HERE.
4. Look for sale racks and sale signs in the store
Anytime I go into a retail store to shop, I look for the sale racks first. I found a skirt and shirt for $5 each at Forever 21 last time I did that. And recently, I found a bunch of cute chokers at Neiman Marcus that were all 30% off. It's easy to skip the sale racks, thinking there won't be anything good, but it's worth a shot!
5. Garage Sales
The best are estate sales! We found our mid century modern dining set with sideboard from an estate sale 2 years ago. It's worth scouring Craigslist to read up on the upcoming garage sales and see if anything stands out.
6. Check third party websites
For example, when I was looking for specific Quay Australia sunglasses, I found them cheaper on Asos's website then on Quay's. And when I was looking for the ankle wrap sandals from Steve Madden, I found them cheaper at DSW. The best way I discover other stores that sell the item I'm looking for, is just by googling the product.
7. Follow the brand or store on social media
Companies use Instagram especially to promote deals and discounts. So make sure you're following any company that you're seriously interested in purchasing from. The main companies I shop at that have sales announced via IG are Three Bird Nest, Quay Australia, DSW, and Show Me Your Mumu.
