I’ll be the first to admit it; I love a good deal, and I’m not afraid to hunt for one. As someone whose taste is much more expensive than my budget, it’s always important for me to use these shopping tricks to find the items I want for the best price.
Since I started my career in retail, I was able to pick up on industry secrets and tricks of the trade. I’ll admit that a good portion of my paycheck used to go right back into the store because of everything I purchased, but I was still always aware of pricing and how to get the best deal. Now that I don’t get my store discount, I have to be smart about my spending and use these shopping tricks to do that. I have a few shopping tricks and secrets to share with you!
- Utilize your online wish list:
One of the easiest ways to save money is to be patient. Many online stores such as Amazon and Nordstrom have a wish list where you can add items you like, and wait for the price to go down. Check back once a week, and once the price drops, snatch up your item for a percentage off. Most places will reduce prices twice, so if you can be patient enough, and you don’t think the item will sell out first, you can even wait for the second price drop!
- Know the markdown schedule:
Each store has a schedule for when they mark prices down, so it’s wise to find out the schedule for your favorite shopping destination. This information can often be found through a simple Google search, but sometimes you’ll just have to ask a store associate.
Nordstrom does markdowns on Tuesday. (This can’t be found online, but I learned this when I worked there.)
Target’s markdown schedule is as follows: Monday Target Markdowns: Kids’ Clothing, Stationery (office supplies, gift wrap), and Electronics. Tuesday: Women’s Clothing and Domestics (Décor). Wednesday: Men’s Clothing, Toys, Food, Health and Beauty. Thursday: Lingerie, Shoes, Housewares. Friday: Cosmetics, Automotive
- Follow your favorite places on social media:
Often stores/websites announce sales on social media, so you’ll always have the scoop on when you can save money. This way you can shop at the prime time for budget friendly shopping sprees!
My time at Nordstrom turned me into a loyal shopper, but most of my purchases now are made at Nordstrom Rack where you can find your favorite clothing items for 65% off retail prices. Follow them on Instagram to get info on the latest sales. My Favorite sales are the 25% off of clearance items, which happen once every couple of months, and almost always on holidays. They are only announced on their social media platforms, and not widely publicized. These sales require a bit of digging, but I often find gems that I could only dream of affording at full price.
Talk about a good deal: Last time I scored a pair of J brand jeans for $50 and a theory blazer for $65!
- If you’re really consistent shopper at the same places, consider getting a store card:
Don’t want to affect your credit? Many stores and websites have debit options as well, and if you do frequently shop there, the discounts WILL add up.
Target and Amazon both have fantastic loyalty programs where you save 5% on each visit and get additional coupons in the mail, whereas Nordstrom mails you gift cards equating to a % of your purchases and provides free in store alterations. Now stores like TJ Maxx are even offering great store card options! Do your research and see what’s best for you, but I always say, if you’re going to shop, you might as well get money back from it!
If you’re going to shop, you might as well get money back from it! – Click to tweet this
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Being smart about shopping can take some practice and persistence, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll never be able to shop any other way. If stores can still make a profit off of the discounted items, (which they do) why does it make sense to pay for items at full price? Use these shopping tricks to ensure that you’re getting the best deals on your favorite items. Good luck, and happy shopping!!