Tip #36: How to Shop Clearance (Repost)

I have had so many people tell me they don't shop clearance because they don't want to spend the time digging through everything.  Clearance racks can be overwhelming, but I have a system that makes clearance rack shopping not intimidating.

Step 1:  Know your SIZE and look only at those clothes.

Step 2:  Know what COLORS look good on you (for those of you living in Northern VA - I offer a Color Analysis service).  For example, I look for warm colors... I will pass right by a bright yellow garment  no matter how cute it may be.

Step 3:  Know what STYLES/SHAPES look good on you.  This is the hardest to figure out about ourselves.  It is not so cut and dry as size/color.  For me, I look at the neckline first.  If it is round or boat-neck, I move on instantly.  I have a long neck with short hair, so I go for collars, v-necks and turtlenecks.  For pants, I personally don't look at pleated fronts, embellishment or straight legs.

Step 4:  Consider the VERSATILITY of the garment.  Layering is in style this year.... can the item go under a sweater?  How will it look with different pieces of jewelry?  Can I wear difference color/style pants/jeans with the shirt?  If it is NOT versatile, how much will I wear it standalone?  How long will it be in style?

I have price points for different items (price points will be different for everyone).  For example, I don't mind spending up to $20 on a sweater based on how often I will wear it, how long it will be in style, how versatile it is, and how well it is made.

IMPORTANT TO NOTE:  Clearance racks are most likely stocked with items from the previous season.  I buy most of my Summer clothes in the Fall, my Winter clothes in late winter/early spring, my Fall clothes in the winter.

If you have any questions, suggestions or comments, please let me know!  If you need help with your closet, let me know!  If you want me to go shopping with you, let me know!

Happy Clearance Shopping!

Tip #35: After Xmas Sales

Bad News:  Store inventory is down, which means that there won't be as much left over for the sales.

Good News:  Crowds will be down due to weather.

So, if you are willing to brave the storm, happy shopping!  

OR CYBER SHOP!!!

(If you Cyber Shop, PLEASE remember to first start at www.ebates.com OR www.shopathome.com for CASH BACK on EVERY PURCHASE)

Can anyone tell me of a good deal you got today?

Tip #34: The White Shirt

What makes a great white shirt?

French Seam

• Construction
• French Seams
• A double-lined yoke
• Made from a thick fabric so it will last longer and drape better 
• Straight, smooth stitching at the hems with no diagonal wrinkles
• Collar shape
• Make sure it is versatile (wear with blazers, sweaters, alone, etc)

Tip #33: Save $ for a Bargain Shopping Spree in the New Year!

Oh My!  Didn't realize I hadn't blogged since Thursday.... my, how time gets away - especially at Christmas time.  My daughter turned 8 years old on Saturday... nothing like adding a birthday into the Christmas timeline to really make life interesting!

Have been shopping for presents and looking at all the items that I want to buy in January/February!  As much as you want to buy a little something for yourself, DON'T DO IT.... YET!!!

THE BEST TIME TO SHOP FOR XMAS ITEMS AND WINTER CLOTHING ARE IN JANUARY AND FEBRUARY!!!!  

SAVE YOUR MONEY FOR A PERSONAL SHOPPING SPREE!!  

I get goose-bumps just thinking about the bargains I will find!!!

Tip #32: Jeans for your Muffin Top

Some of you don't have a stomach... but, I am not one of the lucky ones!  Those 2 kids took away my flat tummy and no amount of dieting or exercise will make it go away (tummy tuck, anyone?!?)

So, when I found this article about Levi's Perfectly Slimming 512 Jeans, I was instantly interested!

Shop Smart Magazine tried them on a model against True Religion Jeans and the Levi's won!  Levi's had better construction than the $240 True Religion Jeans. AND the model's muffin top disappeared!!

Is the unique styling of the True Religion Jeans for $220 worth more than the fit of the $20 Levi's?!?

Go to the mall and try them on (they come in all styles)!!!!!  Give me your report!

Levi's Perfectly Slimming 512
Plus Size (black)

Tip #31: The PedEgg

Today will be short and sweet since my youngest daughter is sick and very demanding when not sleeping :)

Have you seen the PedEgg?!?  Wondered if it works?

Consumer Reports says, "In our tests on es-than-beautiful feet, it smoothed away rough patches better than a pumice stone."

There you go.... it works!  Might want to pick one up (on sale, of course!)

Tip #30: Dressing for a Cold, Rainy Day

OK.... so, I got up this morning to get ready for church and it was raining and cold outside.  Yuck. 


What to wear?!?  I think logically...

• Winter Shoes I don't mind getting wet... my brown boots... check
• Jacket that is warm and rain resistant... don't have a warm rain jacket.... oh boy.... must wear a sweater with my black fall rain jacket.... check

Definitely wearing the brown boots and a sweater.... which sweater... hmmmm....

Since it was yucky outside and a Sunday, I decided I wanted to be comfortable.  I chose a pair of comfy brown pants and an ivory turtleneck sweater.  Threw on a matching scarf and earrings and off I went....

- Hip Bargain Chick

Tip #29: My Dining Room

Was decorating my dining room for Xmas and realized that everything I had bought was a deal!!  So, I had to tell you about it...

Has anyone had the good fortune of hitting Target right after Xmas for their 75% off sale?  I hit is just right last year and got 3 tablecloths for under $4 each - including the one shown.  Of course, my table is longer than the tablecloth (oops!). I had gotten red velvet pillow case covers at an estate sale years ago.  I cut them along the seam to make a long strip.  I usually use these as a tree skirt, but this year I used the other tablecloth as a tree skirt and the red velvet pieces to line the end of my table.

The end chair (I have 2) were bought at a consignment store for $20 each.  I have to admit my dining room chairs were not a great deal, but a good deal at $60 a chair - brand new (in the clearance center of a huge furniture store).

The chandelier was once the gross brass lighting fixture the builders put in.  Kai (my husband) spray painted it.  I am still looking for some glass sconces to finish off the look of the chandelier, but the greenery looks nice at Xmas.  And the bulbs were bought at Target last year.

I buy Xmas cards, lights, wreaths, bulbs, ornaments (for exchanges), cookie plates... right after Xmas for the following year.


- Hip Bargain Chick

Tip #28: 3 Gifts... Just like Jesus

Is it just me or does it feel like Xmas came early this year?!?  Why does buying presents have to be SO stressful?!!?  I don't even have a big family and I have 18 gifts to buy - not including neighbors and friends!

Thank you to several of my friends (you know who you are) for offering this advice:

Jesus received 1 gift from each of the Wise Men.  So, I told my children, "Daddy and I wrote Santa and told him to deliver 3 gifts each.... just like Jesus received from the Wise Men."  They were VERY excited about that!!!

Setting limits is a good thing :)

Happy Xmas Shopping!

 - The Hip Bargain Chick

Tip #27: Beat the Supermarket at their own Game!

Strategically placed signs, flashing coupon dispensers and displays play mind-tricks that make you buy more, spend more and make impulse buying almost irresistible:

LOOK OUT FOR THESE TRAPS:

1. AT THE ENTRANCE:  Product posters can increase the likelihood that you'll buy the product.
2. LOOK HIGH or LOW for HIDDEN SAVINGS:  There's a zone on the shelves where you're most likely to see merchandise.  It goes from slightly above eye level to about knee level. Look above and below that zone to discover bargains.
3. AT THE END of AISLES:  Retailers place impulse items there because you're more likely to see them.
4. AT THE BACK OF STORES:  Staples such as milk and eggs are way in the back.  You have to pass by or through several aisles to reach them, which means you'll probably make a few more unplanned buys.

Tip #26: Retrofitting $s to Purchases

Did you know that most stores (if not all) will honor a lower price after you have bought the item?  For example, I bought a sweater on-line from JC Penney's the other day.  I noticed they were having another sale today, so I looked up the price of the sweater.  It had gone done $10 in price!  So, I called the 1-800 number and they credited my account.

Ever gone to the grocery store and forgotten a coupon at home?  I did that the other day.  I bought rice and forgot a $1.00 coupon at home.  Since it was double coupon day the day I bought the rice, they honored that and gave me $2.00 cash.... yeah!

Did you know that Bed Bath and Beyond will let you use as many coupons as you have items?  And they honor expired coupons.  For example, I bought 3 items and used 3 20% off coupons. And they are good for sales items.

Any stories to share?

Tip #25: Shopping my Closet... Outfit #2

This Banana Republic jacket is one of my all-time best finds.... $4.99!!!  Bought it at Leesburg Outlet last spring.  It was on deep discount, to say the least.  Love the color - great for 'Autumn' people (if you don't know what primary or secondary season you are, please let me know so we can figure it out... this is one of the most important things to know when dressing yourself)

The tank underneath is from Target $4.00.  I like the long and lean tanks because they go to the thigh.  Very important when trying to 'flatten' your silhouette - even if you aren't tall.  AND You don't want them inching up and showing that plumber's butt!

The jeans are Cabi.  Cabi clothes are NOT cheap, but I do love the way they fit.  I was able to get these pants at a Cabi Sample Sale for 50% off for $45.00.  Having a party is another good way to get free clothes.

The necklace I got from my mom (free).  And the earrings were a Kohl's clearance - $2.50.  Like my last post, these earrings are round (for my narrow face).  When I shop the jewelry clearance for earrings, I look for versatility in bronze, gold, silver.

The shoes were also found on a spring shopping trip to the outlets in Williamsburg.  Naturalizers - very comfortable.  I like to have a pair of brown loafers on hand for my preppier outfits.  They can be worn with or without socks.  Shoes = $9.99 - another end-of-season deep discount.  Outlets are not always the best places to find deals!  Don't think because you are shopping at an outlet that the prices are actually cheaper than mall prices.  Be very careful and do your homework!

Happy Shopping!! - Hip Bargain Chick

Tip #24: Shopping my Closet... Outfit #1

This is the first of a "How to Shop Your Closet" series...

I rarely throw clothes away.  Yes, that goes against all the advice.  Have you ever heard the phrase "80% of people only wear 20% of their closet"?  That may be true, but I WILL wear the other 80% another season(s)!!

I was at Salvation Army this summer and stumbled upon these grey pants.  They are comfy, polyester pants.  I knew I would be wearing something long over the top, so I didn't have to worry that they fit well, I just had to like the leg.  I love these type of pants because they are so comfortable, you can wad them up in a ball and they won't wrinkle - great for traveling.  Pants = $2.00

I didn't wear the pants for awhile.  Then I found this tunic shirt at Plato's Closet in Centerville, VA (a great 2nd hand store!) and knew I could wear it with theses pants or skinny jeans (dress it up or down) - a very versatile piece.  Tunic Shirt = $7.00

Belts are definitely the trend right now.  This belt came as part of another outfit.  Putting the belt high on the waist makes your legs look long.  Placing the belt low would look less polished, but definitely hip.  Belt = $0.00

Earrings and ring I bought at Forever 21 several seasons ago. I look for round earrings since I have a long, narrow face.
Jewelry = $6.50

My boots!  Love these!  Got them 2 years ago at Aerosoles - end of season (February - I do most of my winter shopping in February) .... $15.00!  They are SO comfy.

A COMPLETE WINTER OUTFIT FOR $30.50!!!

Any questions? - Hip Bargain Chick

Tip #23: Rite Aid Wins

I am constantly trying to save as much money as I can.  Recently, it came to my attention that I was NOT saving as much on groceries as I could.  There are people out there that spend <$100 a month on groceries for a family of 6!!!!  Now, I am on a quest!!!!!

So, I heard that Rite Aid was the best pharmacy to find bargains (vs. CVS, Walgreens, etc.)  

Here is what happened:

Bought               = $75.00

After Sales         = $57.50

Coupon Savings = $23.00

Total                   = $34.50

UP Savings        =  $18.00

TOTAL             = $16.50

SAVINGS OF 78%

How did I do it?!?

1. Go to www.southernsavers.com
2. Click on Rite Aid ad
3. Follow instructions (I suggest the Getting Started Guide)

From what I hear, the savings only get better because of the UP rewards.  

Share your stories!!!  - The Hip Bargain Chick

Tip #22: 2010 Xmas Card

Ordered my Xmas cards through Shutterfly.  Went to ShopatHome.com first to get 10% cash back (see link at the right), Free Shipping (SHIP25) and used CSEVEN5 code for extra discount.


Make a statement with Shutterfly Christmas photo cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

Tip #21: Happy Thanksgiving and great deal from Justice

I don't love Justice for their bargains, but I know that some girls HAVE to buy their clothes there.  For those that fall into this category....

Use Justice Coupon Code ‘779‘ to Save 40% on any order.
If that’s not enough, you’ll also be able to receive 9% Cash Back at www.ShopatHome (see link at right)!

Tip #20: Fall 2010 Accessory Trends

• Heavy layered Jewelry
• Long Leather Gloves
• Micro purse
• Snood Scarves

Tip #19: Perfume Rings!!!

OMG... have you heard of these statement rings that also hold perfume?!?  Of course, the ring MUST be cute and smell good :)  Not sure if this could be called a 'bargain', but it is a neat idea that I wish I had thought of first!!

www.sephora.com sells all of these shown.  If you click the Shop at Home link to the right, you can look up Sephora, get free shipping and 3 free samples (must spend $50) AND 9% cash back.  If anyone finds a better deal, please let me know!

Could be an awesome present for yourself or someone else heading into the holiday season parties.  Great for people going to an office every day - you know you will always be the one smelling good :)

Tip #18: Xmas Gift Idea for $1.40!!!

Do you have people in your life that you would like to give a present to, but can't afford it?  

Don't know what to get the in-laws?

Great Aunts/uncles?

Cousins?

Nieces/nephews?  

Restaurants.com is a GREAT option...  but, do NOT go to www.Restaurants.com

Start at the Shop at Home link to the right

Shop at home gives you the discount code (right now it is GOBBLE) to receive 80% off the coupon price AND it will give you 30% cash back on the coupon purchase!  

Example:  I bought three $25 off coupons for Eggspectations for $2.00 each.  I spent $6.00 and received $1.80 cash back (30%) for a total of $1.40 per coupon!!!  THIS IS CHEAPER THAN A CARD!!!!!!!  (When your account hits $20.00, Shop at Home sends you a check.)

NOTE:  Please read the fine print on the restaurant.com coupons.  Some say SUN-THURS only.  Most of them exclude alcohol and there IS a minimum purchase.  For the $25 off coupons, you must spend $35.00. The person receiving the coupon could go out for a meal for $10.00 + tip.

I printed my coupons out on nice paper to give as a present!

Tip #17: SHORTCUTS.COM

If you shop at SAFEWAY, CITY MARKET, VON's, RALPH's, KROGER (see website for more):

1. Register your club card 
2. Load coupons
3. Go shopping and swipe your card.... voila - money saved!!!

NO CLIPPING COUPONS REQUIRED!!!

Tip #16: DON'T THROW IT AWAY!

I do not follow the rule "if you haven't worn it for a year, then get rid of it"  

You NEVER know when something might come back into style (and save you $) 

OK - so I have a lot of clothes I don't wear now

BUT I might wear them next season :)  

EXAMPLE #1: Bought 2 argyle sweaters at Kohl's about 5 years ago... Argyle is back!  Just layer it with a jacket and a hip necklace... Voila - brand 'new' outfit - COST = $0

EXAMPLE #2:  A shirt that may not look good with mid-rise jeans, may look good with low-rise jeans and vice versa - it depends heavily on the trend of the moment.


Only get rid of clothes when:

1. You will never wear that size again
2. Stains
3. In bad shape (and then I may still save it for a rag, paint clothes or pajamas)

Note:  This only works if you continue to remain close to the same size over time

Tip #15: Q-TIPS ROCK

You think I am crazy, right?  "Q-Tips?!?  She is blogging about Q-Tips?!?  

What is Hip and Fashionable about Q-Tips?!?"  

THEY CLEAN HARD TO REACH AREAS (and what isn't Hip about being clean!)

THEY ARE CHEAP

Buy a 150 pack of Q-Tips at the $1.00 store.  

(I actually like these best because there is NOT a lot of padding and the sticks do NOT bend)

FOR CLEANING:

1. In-between crevices of REMOTE CONTROLS
2. The most stubborn areas of your COMPUTER, lap top, cd player, DVD/VCR, Cameras, radios
3. Tiny CAR INTERIORS (cd areas, beverage holders, buttons)
4. NAIL POLISH goofs 
5. Small KNICK KNACKS
6. The fins of furnace and air conditioning DUCTS
7. Small, permanent WASHING MACHINE SCREEN in the cold water supply line
8. Rubbing alcohol + Q-Tips = BATTERY CONNECTIONS (cordless phones, cell phones, battery-operated toys, radios, etc.)  
9. Food from the corners of SQUARE CONTAINERS
10. Indents on SHOES
11. DRILLED HOLE DEBRIS before you insert a screw or other fastener

OTHER:

1. Remove Make-up (especially under the eyes)
2. Apply ointments in between your toes 
3. Apply make-up (Make-up artists do NOT use the expensive pads - they use Q-tips to perfect and blend)
4. Light hard-to-reach candle wicks
5. Get into intricate detailings, cracks and crevices when refinishing furniture
6. Q-tip + Olive Oil acts as Lubricant for sticky zippers
7. Apply glue to small model parts, craft pieces 

KEEP Q-TIPS IN YOUR CAR, KITCHEN, BATHROOM, GARAGE, PLAY ROOM

Tip #14: What would YOU do?!?

NO MORE EXCUSES!!  

• Shop Clearance!  
• Clip Coupons!  
• Thrift Stores!
• Comparison Shop on the Internet!
• Use Entertainment Books to choose your restaurant/activities!

IMAGINE WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH THE $ YOU SAVE!!!!

• Vacation somewhere warm
• Take your family out to dinner
• Buy that one 'thing' you couldn't afford
• SAVE and pay CASH for your next car!
• GET OUT OF DEBT!

REFER TO TIPS #1-13!!

Tip #13: Kohl's Sales

Just received my Kohl's coupon in the mail - the one where you peel away to find your savings.... finally got the 30% :)  Yeah for me!

In addition to the coupon....

• They are having a huge sale right now

AND

• If you use your Kohl's card you receive $10 free dollars for every $50 you spend.  

If you have to do Christmas shopping, now may be the time.  

DON'T FORGET TO SHOP CLEARANCE (the coupon still works)

Tip #12: ROSS Stores for household items

I LOVE ROSS!!!  

I decorated most of my home by shopping at Ross (see below for some pictures).  Yes, it is one of those stores you have to keep going back to.  Most Ross stores get 2 new shipments a week (which days vary per store), so their turnover is good.

• Luggage
• Pillows - NO WHERE else can I find nice pillows for $3.99 - $7.99. If you know of another place, let me know.... I have been pricing them for years because I can never get over how expensive they are!
• Sheets - they have every thread count imaginable
• Cookbooks/Books
• Decorative vases
• Shower curtains and accessories
• CURTAINS
• Curtain Rods (adjustable) - Bought all of mine there for $4.99 to $9.99 per rod (and I have some wide windows).  TOTALLY CHEAP!! The picture is of Cindy Crawford rods at JC Penney ON SALE from $30+.  I bought the same looking ones for $9.99 per rod.

Next time you are shopping for your home, I challenge you to TRY Ross first and see what you can find

If at first you don't succeed, try, try again!

Tip #11 - Dollar Stores

Important to Note when shopping Dollar Stores:

• Not ALL Dollar Stores are created equal.  Be careful that the Dollar store is in fact a place where EVERYTHING is a dollar.
• If you consistently use grocery coupons, dollar stores may not have the best deals on certain items. 
• BE CAREFUL - those dollars add up quick!!!

Good bargains at Dollar Stores:

1. Cleaning supplies (like sponges)
2. Chips (depending on the size of bag)
3. Greeting Cards
4. Spices (Got a HUGE bottle of Cinnamon and Ginger there the other day)
5. Seasonal Items (like Christmas ornaments)
6. Tin Foil containers (the ones you use to bring meals to people)

Is there an item(s) that you always buy at Dollar Stores?

LET ME KNOW!

Tip #10: Denim Trends 2010

Like them or not, here are 7 denim trends this fall/winter... 

1. Paneled Denim
2. Cropped '50s Style Jeans—In slim straight cuts, dark washes, and with zippered ankles
3. Graphic Print Denim
4. Skinny Cargo Jeans
5. The Straight Slouch Jean—Part ex-boyfriend jean, part mom jean, the new straight slouchy style is perfect for all you girls who want a slightly more tailored pair.
6. Denim In Saturated Fall Colors—Rich, autumnal shades of velvety eggplant, deep olive, and antique mustard gold.
7. Revamped '70s Style Jeans— '70s-inspired styles that range from crisp trouser cuts to a more modified boot-cut.

NEVER DISCARD YOUR FAVORITE PAIR OF JEANS BECAUSE OF TRENDS!!!!  

If they look good on you, then they NEVER go out of style!

Tip #9: CRAIGSLIST

A girlfriend from the gym told me that I write too much!  So, this blog is for you Brandy!

SHOP CRAIGSLIST!
I always go there first for items such as furniture, lighting, musical instruments... mostly big, bulky items that people do not want to put on eBay and have to ship it.

• Do NOT respond to ads in your local listing from distant sellers.
• Don't be afraid to haggle about price.  Chances are they priced it knowing that someone would haggle with them.
• Do your homework on similar items - used and new.  

PICTURED are 2 big ticket items we have bought for our home:

Tip #8: More Accessory shopping

Today is going to be a short tip because it is my husband's 39th birthday and I have TOO much to do :)

Tip #1 was about accessory shopping at Kohl's...

I bought the necklace I am wearing in these pictures at Kohl's clearance for $2.00!!!  I LOVE this necklace and get so many compliments on it.  It can be worn as a long chain as well, but can be doubled because it has a clasp (very important when looking at long necklaces - can it be doubled/tripled).

I have to say that I love that dress, too.  $20 Calvin Klein dress at Ross.  Felt weird about wearing black to a wedding, but with the bright necklace, I felt better.

Another great place to buy trendy, cheap jewelry is Forever 21 (by far my favorite store for trendy bargain shopping).  You can buy rings for $2 and earrings for not that much more.  And you don't have to feel bad when it goes out of style because you didn't spend a lot of money :)

Isn't my husband cute?!?!?
:)  Hip Bargain Chick

Tip #7: Salvation Army Shopping

Picture #1

Went to Salvation Army today (Wednesday are 25% at Salvation Army on Balls Ford Road in Manassas)!!!!  I am SO excited to share with you what I got and WHY I got it....

Picture #1:  I work outside the home and need outfits that I can dress up and dress down.  The Yellow/Green blazer is not something I would usually buy because of the color, but with cut and black underneath it looks stunning.  And the Spring 2011 trends say that vibrant hues will be in

Picture #2

The tan jacket is military style and is in now and will continue to be in-style in the spring. The Green sweater is Benetton, made of Alpaca wool  - it will look great with jeans and with dressy slacks.  The grey sweater is H&M - just saw this on the rack a month ago!  Love turtleneck sweaters - hides my long neck.  The shoes are designer and can be worn with jeans or slacks

Picture #2: These are the buys I got for my girls... 2 cute dresses and 3 pairs of shoes.  They fit my older daughter and will fit my younger daughter next year!

Picture #3

Picture #3:  The black coolate shorts still had the tag on them!  Originally $44 at Macy's.  I got them for $5!

Picture #4

Picture #4:  Black blazer... find one that fits and you will have it for years!!

In addition to the above I bought: 

• 2 pair of pajama bottoms
• Black sundress
• Dressy black pants
• Purple t-shirt with puffy sleeves

17 items for $80, which averages out to $4.70 an item!!!

I don't always buy this much for myself, but I was specifically looking for blazers and sweaters, which tend to be a little bit more money.  

Any questions?  Need any help with shopping?  Help knowing HOW to shop for YOU?  

LET ME KNOW!!!  

See Tip #4 How to Shop Clearance

Tip #6: www.Eyeslipsface.com - GREAT DEALS

Ever considered buying your make-up on-line?  If you know what colors work for you, it is a lot easier to feel confident in doing this. 


I found this great website that is offering 50% off your entire order with the coupon code SAVINGSELF at E.L.F. Cosmetics. This deal expires December, 31 2010, which gives you plenty of time to find something for the holiday parties.   AND they have FREE SHIPPING until November 8th, 2010 (I try to never pay for shipping unless it is a really good deal like free business cards at www.vistaprint.com)


Personally, I buy all my make-up brushes on-line... they can get EXPENSIVE.  They have brushes, false eyelashes, mascara and more for $1.00!! 
And they have customer ratings, so you feel more comfortable with the buy.  


TALK TO ME GIRLS!!!  Any feedback?  Suggestions? Bargains?

Tip #5: Spring 2011 Fashion Trends

Tip #4 talks about How to Shop Clearance Racks.  I noted that clearance racks mostly consist of last season items... so, I shop for spring/summer in the Fall.

Therefore, it is important to know what will still be in style next year when shopping the clearance racks to get the most bang for your (discounted) buck :)

1. 60's A-line coats
2. 70's flashback to satiny dresses in emerald or sapphire.
3. Still 'in' from the fall... Military cargo jacket or military-inspired vest.  Paired with a flirty bottom, this outfit will last through the fall and in the the next year.
4. Mix-and-matching will continue to be trendy into spring.  Remember to stick to one or two colors when mixing patterns!  
5. Flatform Sandals!  Part flat, part wedge... if you see any on sale - BUY THEM!  They are the sandal to have next year!
6. Trench dresses.  You will find trench coats all over the stores right now.  The trench coat will morph into the trench dress for spring.
7. Layering Sheer material.  You may find some sheer tops in clearance.  Make sure it is 'layerable' and buy it knowing you will be in-style for Spring.
8. Put all those embellished pieces away.  Spring 2011 is low-key and come in desert-inspired colors like rust, sienna and sand.
9. More colors... sand, buff, beige. Neutrals not your thing... pair it with red or black.  
10. Japanese-inspired pieces including obi belts, kimono-like coats and satiny pieces in festive blues and pinks.
11. LOVE THIS ONE... Dig through your closet or visit your thrift store to find PREPPY oldies but goodies such as ladylike watches, woven bracelets, tasseled loafers and a striped tote. Wear these once-out-of-date accessories all together and look totally 2011.
12. There’s no easier (or more affordable!) way to update your look in a hurry—just slip on an armful of colorful plastic or wooden bangles. 
13. Vibrant citrus hues are big for spring! This hot new color makes updating last summer’s cobalt and aquamarine clothes easy.
14. So long, crop tops, short shorts and too-tight dresses. Look for looser, easy-breezier shapes like long, billowy blouses and swingy dresses. 

Tip #4 - How to Shop Clearance Racks

I have had so many people tell me they don't shop clearance because they don't want to spend the time digging through everything.  Clearance racks can be overwhelming, but I have a system that makes clearance rack shopping not intimidating.

Step 1:  Know your SIZE and look only at those clothes.

Step 2:  Know what COLORS look good on you (for those of you living in Northern VA - I offer a Color Analysis service).  For example, I look for warm colors... I will pass right by a bright yellow garment  no matter how cute it may be.

Step 3:  Know what STYLES/SHAPES look good on you.  This is the hardest to figure out about ourselves.  It is not so cut and dry as size/color.  For me, I look at the neckline first.  If it is round or boat-neck, I move on instantly.  I have a long neck with short hair, so I go for collars, v-necks and turtlenecks.  For pants, I personally don't look at pleated fronts, embellishment or straight legs.

Step 4:  Consider the VERSATILITY of the garment.  Layering is in style this year.... can the item go under a sweater?  How will it look with different pieces of jewelry?  Can I wear difference color/style pants/jeans with the shirt?  If it is NOT versatile, how much will I wear it standalone?  How long will it be in style?

I have price points for different items (price points will be different for everyone).  For example, I don't mind spending up to $20 on a sweater based on how often I will wear it, how long it will be in style, how versatile it is, and how well it is made.

IMPORTANT TO NOTE:  Clearance racks are most likely stocked with items from the previous season.  I buy most of my Summer clothes in the Fall, my Winter clothes in late winter/early spring, my Fall clothes in the winter.

If you have any questions, suggestions or comments, please let me know!  If you need help with your closet, let me know!  If you want me to go shopping with you, let me know!

Happy Clearance Shopping!

Tip #3 - Fall/Winter 2010-2011 Trends

Went shopping today, ladies!!!  Have SOOO much to tell you!   But, one thing at a time...

Here is a list of some of the trends I saw today:

• Plaid - love plaid!  Comes back in style every few years
• Sweater Dresses
• Military-cut jackets
• Denim jackets
• Scarves!!!!
• Belts
• Ruched collars
• Puffy sleeves (For those of you with sloping shoulders like me, puffy sleeves help even out our silhouette)
• Red purses

Colors:

• Deep purple
• Pinks
• Grays
• Black

Only spent $15.00 today at the Leesburg Outlets.  

I am not one of those that HAS to buy something every time I shop (although I do have a sense of disappointment when I don't find a bargain.)  BUT, if you ARE someone who HAS to buy something, buy an accessory (scarf, jewelry, hair accessory) so you don't spend too much frivolously.

TOMORROW'S TIP... HOW TO SHOP CLEARANCE RACKS!!!

CHECK OUT THE GROUPON LINK!!  LOVE GROUPONS!!!  Bought a day at spa for 50% off and one for 50% off at a vineyard.  Today's deal is Soap.com

Tip #2 - Intro. to Resale Stores

Thrift Stores, Consignment Stores, Salvation Army, Goodwill.... I will be making MANY postings about these stores in the future.  They hold a plethora of fabulous findings.

Today, to keep my blog from becoming a book, I will only be introducing these stores.

I have been shopping Salvation Army for years.  When I lived in Rochester (growing up), I would shop at the one nearest the affluent areas.  (yes, I have been a bargain shopper since adolescence AND I managed to get  voted 'Best Dressed' in High school... I only mention it to give me some credibility that I didn't look like a homeless person).  And I digress....

For those of you who live near me in Northern Virginia, I shop at the NEW Salvation Army on Balls Ford Road.  And, just so I can get the BEST deal, I only shop on Wednesday's when they have 25% off Customer Appreciation Day!  I have a girlfriend who is trying to change her spending habits due to a reduction in income.  She went to Salvation Army (on a Wednesday, of course) and found a fabulous pair of boots for $13 - plus 25% off!  She was SOOO excited... I think she's hooked... and I am SOOO proud of her!  I just got a call from another girlfriend who went this past Wednesday - she found an expensive red leather purse and Nine West boots.  The excitement from finding a a fabulous bargain is exhilarating!!!

I have to give a shout-out to Stuff Consignments in Gainesville (next to Sport & Health).  I was in there today to use my $5.00 off of $25 purchase coupon (found in Premier Mag, Incentives, Mailer).  Found a red leather purse for fall/winter, a New York Company plaid tote (tags still on), and a pair of Children Place (adjustable waist) skinny jeans for my 8 year old... all for a whopping $24.62.  They have 'tag' sales all the time - so I got an extra 25% off!

To find a store in your area or where you may travel:
National Association Resale Professionals Store Search

I WANT TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR FABULOUS FINDS!!!  Talk to me, ladies!

ANY OTHER SUGGESTIONS TO SHARE?!?!

Happy Shopping - Hip Bargain Chick

Tip #1 - Accessories

To liven up ANY outfit, ACCESSORIES are key!  Live near a Kohl's?  They have an amazing jewelry clearance section.  AND you can use your Kohl's coupons on the clearance items.

When you are buying the jewelry think about your wardrobe...

• What necklines do you wear most?  V-neck?  Round neck? Button Down?
• What colors do you like?  Silver and gold are BOTH in style right now.  And ANYTHING goes with Black.
• Don't go overboard on matchy, matchy. Your earrings and necklace don't have to match. 
• Consider Rings and Bracelets!  For example, I love a big ring and big earrings with no necklace.

Gosh, I could write forever - but then I would be giving you too much in 1 day.

Happy Bling Shopping!

(Don't forget to peek (at least for ideas and comparisons) on-line at places like Amazon, Forever 21, Kmart, Macy's, Nordstrom, Walmart, Target, Costco, Ebay, Etsy, H&M, JC Penney, J Crew, Overstock, Old Navy, QVC, Sears)

- The Hip Bargain Chick

Welcome to Hip Bargain Chick! My goal is to offer 1 Bargain Shopping Tip per day! Shopping could be done in a store, at a friend's house, in your own closet... the goal is to be hip, fashionable and save money all at the same time!