Look Great in 2009: Shop Smart

The state of the economy is on everyone’s minds these days. And for that reason, shopping in 2009 might not seem as fun as it could be. Impulse buying has been taken over by careful budgeting. But that doesn’t mean, you can’t add a few terrific pieces to your wardrobe. Following these helpful shopping tips to have a fashionable year without going broke.

Invest in the Classics

If you have some extra money to spend this year, don’t splurge on trendy items. Instead invest in classic pieces that you will be able to wear season after season. A great pair of black pumps, diamond stud earrings or a classic flap bag are fabulous options that can be versatile staples in your wardrobe for years to come.

Shop the Sample Sale Sites

One of the greatest things about the Internet in the last year or two has been the emergence of sample sale websites. No longer do you have to comb the city streets in New York to take advantage of the deep discounts of sample sales. Now you can do it online. Gilt Groupe and Ideeli are two of my favorites but there are dozens of such websites to choose from. Redtagcrazy is a similar concept, where you can get one deal at a time at up to an 80% discount.

Get a Piggy Bank

Well it doesn’t have to be an actual piggy bank, it can be your bank account, a cookie jar, your mattress or anywhere you can tuck away a little money. Set aside $20 each week and put it in your shopping fund. I know; it doesn’t sound like a lot. But in three months, you’ll have enough to buy a $250 pair of shoes. Sounds better, right?

Head to the Thrift Stores

Thrift stores, consignment shops and estate sales are wonderful places to get discounted merchandise. You can find beautiful vintage jewelry and handbags that are real treasures. I once found a gorgeous ostrich skin handbag at an estate sale for just a few bucks. Similar bags cost well over a thousand dollars. You never know what you are going to find!

Even though you have to be a little more cautious in spending than in years past, it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun while shopping. Sometimes with bargain hunting, the fun is in the hunt. Keep your eye on the sales, from department stores to garage sales, and you are sure to find some fantastic pieces to enhance to your wardrobe.

^{Photo credit: sxc.hu}