by: Sheila Dicks
Everyone likes a bargain and it is this time of the
year, when sales are in full swing that we head out to
the sales in search of a great bargain. The question is,
are you really getting a bargain when you
buy clothing that doesn't fit well – a pair of boots at
seventy percent off but a size too big – or a sweater
that you will never wear because it doesn't match a
thing you own.
Before you hit the stores looking for bargains decide
how much money you want to spend. A great sale has the
potential to be a spending trap that will leave your
pocketbook empty and your closet overstuffed with items
that you will wish you had never bought – like the boots
that are too big and keep slipping off.
Here are 5 shopping rules that will help you come home
with clothing items that are real bargains that will
make you look and feel good.
Rule # 1. Know exactly what you need. Take inventory of
your clothing and write a list of items that will expand
your wardrobe – a red top that you can wear with five
other items in your closet.
Rule # 2. Buy only what you need. If you have five white
t-shirts that are in good condition and exactly the same
cut you probably don't really need another one.
Rule # 3. If you are working with a budget stay away
from that great plaid, flowery or embellished bag if
most of your wardrobe is patterned and none of the
colors in the bag match the clothing you
already have.
Rule #4. Don't be seduced by a low price. No matter how
expensive it was if it doesn't fit don't buy it. You
might find the best looking designer jacket at a low,
low price but if it's the wrong color or it doesn't suit
your body type you will not likely wear it.
Rule #5. Shop prepared. If you are shopping to find a
blouse to match a certain pair of pants, wear the pants
shopping. Or if you are buying a skirt wear heels or
take an appropriate pair of shoes with you to get a
better idea of how the skirt will look.