How to Shop Smart?

Shopping can be a favorite way to pass your time. There's always something to buy. Here's how to be a smart shopper:

• Decide upon your needs. Learn to live with less. Layer your summer clothes during the winter for a different look. Learn to use a small purse. Limit makeup and accessories. Going without can be a real adventure.
• Make your own style. Start an inexpensive, unconventional trend. Ignore advertising. Why follow the crowd?
• Have style. Choose your outfits carefully. Look for the most accentuating outfits worn by others with the same figure, skin tone or hair color. Wearing different shades of the same color is slimming and easy to put together.
• Extend your wardrobe. Take the time to coordinate your clothes into a month's worth of outfits. Make a list of all possible combinations and refer to it frequently.
• Make a plan. Determine what you need to complete an outfit. Something that doesn't match or fit well may never be worn.
• Be sure it's exceptional. Be patient. Check for quality, color, fit and a long-lasting style. You'll want to wear a garment for a few seasons, and then recycle the fabric into another garment or accessory.
• Compare clearance prices online. Have a rough idea of what you're willing to pay. Review the current styles. Keep a list of reasonable prices in your purse.
• Try the flea market. You'll find a variety of unique imported and second-hand items. You can bargain for a better price.
• Try the dollar store. Their selection may be limited, but they have cute clothes and accessories. This is a great place to buy pajamas and slippers.
• Try thrift stores. Vintage is always in fashion. Brand names can be found. Worn clothing is very comfortable. Look for fabrics to make something new.
• Try Wal-Mart. Search both the men's and women's departments. If you're petite, search the children's department as well. This is a great place for the basics.
• Try Target. They have a stylish clothing line of good quality and reasonable prices.
• Watch for sales. Use coupons during the holiday sales either online or in stores. Try things on prior to a sale. Take time to think things over to avoid impulse shopping.
• Bring a limited amount of cash. Stay within your budget. Leave credit cards at home.
• Do not remove the tags. Wait a week to think it over. Remove the tags once you're sure you'll enjoy your new item.
• Check a lot of shops before buying anything. Usually a lot of shops have same things so you should check before buying. You'll probably find clothes that look alike cheaper than in other stores.

More Tips:

• Allow yourself to splurge on one small item.
• Clothes should glide over your body whether sitting or standing. A larger size may be more appropriate.
• Make a list before you shop. Write down what you need, and how much it cost for each part. Then you wont use too many money