Shop on the cheap

I am not a fashion diva. I don't care about labels. I don't care about the next big designer. I don't covet the "it" bag. I appreciate design. I appreciate art. I appreciate style. I just don't need to spend trillions of dollars on clothes. I certainly would not down anyone who is into fashion but it just isn't me. (If I could afford it I might feel differently but I doubt it.)

I like to look stylish, cute on the cheap without running into 12 people wearing the same outfit, which means not shopping at the major discount stores such as Old Navy, Gap, Wal-mart, or Target. Occasionally, I shop Forever 21 but try to limit that to basics. H&M used to be good but they have really increased their prices since I started shopping there around 2003 and they became more popular.

So here are my basic guidelines for shopping on the cheap without going to major discount chains.

1. Be open-minded. Just because you think a place is a ghetto store doesn't mean they don't have good stuff. You just might have to dig a little. Oftentimes, those places get stuff from other stores that hasn't sold. For example, I got a great pair of jeans at Family Dollar that I wore forever. I still have a bag from FD.

2. Check the fabric. Steer clear of stiff fabric that just screams cheap. You should also check for any holes or tears in the fabric.
3. Dig, Dig, Dig. You have to use your intuition and eye to spot fashion-forward items in discount stores. I once got a darling dress at the Lot store. I think it was supposed to be a night gown but it worked.
3. Accessories. Discount stores are great places for accessories, specifically, handbags. Again, you have to have a good eye but you can generally get a cute bag for less than $10.
4. Thrift. Of course, thrift stores can be a great place for vintage items. I don't shop there for outfitkit but I do for my personal wardrobe. Again, I steer clear of vintage clothing stores. They tend to be expensive but you generally don't have to dig as much to find something good. I stick with the Salvation Army or Goodwill. My sister picked up a great Betsey Johnson dress for $7.00 at the Salvation Army.

Fortunately, I live in NYC, which is basically a giant shopping mall. The discount stores to shop are basically endless. You may have to be a little more creative in other parts of the country.

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