Outfit Details: Tie Sleeve Top similar, High Waisted Jeans, Converse, Transparent Backpack similar

 

Even though times may be tough lately, us girls know we can’t get away from online shopping still 😂😩. To justify it, there are currently soooo many deals out there! Online retailers are having major sales because of closed storefronts due to COVID-19.  Which is good news for us!

Whether you’re looking for deals because of the pandemic or just to be budget friendly, here are some tips that I often use to shop on a budget!

 

 

1. Shop Used/Vintage

 

I mentioned this in my How To Afford Luxury Designer Items blog post before, but my favorite way to save money is to purchase items vintage/used/pre-loved. I’ve been the vintage queen for quite a few years already – I’ve scored unique quality items from furniture, bags, to clothing all for the cheap cheap. Not to mention its SUSTAINABLE! Re-use, re-use, re-use!

You can also pick up designer luxury items this way too, so no need to drop thousands on one purse. Some even offer free layaway, so no need to even have that much to drop at once!

There are several online consignments stores like Fashionphile that sell pre-loved designer items. There are also so many amazing deals on apps like Poshmark (sign up and use code MICALAV to get $10 off your first purchase!) and Mercari selling mint condition clothing and accessories too.

Several clothing consignment stores are selling on Instagram while their storefronts are closed too. So find a consignment store in your area because they might be open to sell and deliver to your house! I know a great consignment store in my area that sell clothes for super cheap, in excellent used condition. I literally scored a basically new Express top for $2 and a JCrew Coat for $8!!! Yes, quality for less is always the best!

 

 

2. Use Coupon Codes

 

Almost every online retailer has a coupon code right now for some $$$ off! I always sign up for their email list too, because most of them offer a discount for your first purchase. You can always unsubscribe later, and it’s worth the discount! I also always search ‘_____ coupon codes’ on google before purchasing too, just in case there are coupon codes out there for that specific store that haven’t expired yet. Retail Me Not has the better codes, but they don’t work all the time. Doesn’t hurt to try!

Try not to purchase anything full price, since they will almost always end up going on sale or wait until you can use a coupon code.

 

 

3. Shop at Budget Friendly Stores

There are several retailers out there that have good pricing! I know a lot of people are against fast fashion these days, but if you actually make the clothing last and don’t ‘throw them away’ in the trash can, it’s not hurting the environment. I’m aware there’s a deeper issue on how the clothing is made overseas as well, but sometimes a girl just can’t afford a $100 t-shirt 😅.

I have a good amount of Forever 21 pieces that I’ve had for YEARS with no issues. If you choose clothing with better material, you will be fine! They have nice cotton clothing too! If you choose the right pieces, they will last and you’ll be stylish as well. I picked up this transparent backpack last summer for $5 at Forever 21! I’ve used it almost daily and really beat it up, and there are still no rips or tears or anything. I’ve even washed it with soap to clean it and it looked brand new again. It really is all about choosing the right items!

Other stores to lookout for is Pretty Little Thing, Asos, BooHoo, and Nasty Gal.

 

 

4. Sacrifice Other Things To Shop for Clothing!

If you’re on a budget, you gotta sacrifice one thing for the other! Don’t pay for a $200 monthly cable bill, use a $14.99 monthly Netflix account. Don’t get your nails done for $50/month, paint them with a $4.99 nail polish. Don’t dye your hair for $200 plus maintenance, leave it your natural color!! Don’t buy a $12.99 6 pack of beer, buy a $4.99 24 pack of water. I think you guys get the point now?! 😂 A lot of money can be saved or for other things if you use those tips, haha.

 

 

 

5. Hire a Personal Stylist

So, if all these tips are overwhelming or you don’t have the time (or patience) to ‘find deals’, let a personal stylist do the work for you. Personal stylists shop within YOUR budget! They have a special eye for style and finding the best deals that work for you. By hiring a personal stylist you save not only time, but also money. You also gain the confidence and style you need to look and feel good! If interested in this option, hire me as your stylist. If you didn’t know already, yes I offer personal styling as an extension to this blog! Read blog posts How To Save Time Using my Virtual & Personal Styling Service and Why You Should Hire a Personal Stylist (& Why Now Is the Best Time)! Book me at www.micalav.com.

 

 

 

I hope everyone is being safe during quarantine! We will all get through this. Of course only shop in your means. I know a lot is going on in the world and shopping is the last thing on some people’s minds, but this is a style blog and there are still some of us that can’t help it, haha. Take care!

 

 

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*Photos by Aaron B. Productions