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!