Well its official we have a new President with new ideas and new policies, and while all that’s great we’re still for the most part broke. Now we know it didn’t take us a year to get into this economic mess and it will take more than a year to get out of it, so until our economic train gets back on track I’ve got a couple of ideas to prevent you’re fashion budget from going into a deep depression over the recession.

1. Clearance, Clearance, Clearance! I’ve seen it a hundred times, where women go into a clothing store and never even look for a clearance rack, I don’t know if it’s a phobia or the thought that the clothes may be out of style but this one little rule is a big one that can save you more money then you know. Now while there may be an occasional outdated item on clearance this is really not the norm. Most of the items you’ll find on clearance will be only a couple of months old. The only reason inventory makes its way to the clearance rack is to make room for new inventory. Take your time look on these racks first to find the best deals and bargains for your budget. Trust me it’s not hard to find two great ensembles at stores like New York and Company or Marshall’s for under $50 if you just use the clearance racks.

2. Shopping in the off season can also lend your wallet a helping hand. While some may find buying their winter clothes in the summer and vice versa a little strange this can actually help to save you hundreds of dollars per year, not to mention netting you some unique items that were probably overlooked during the regular season. When you’re shopping during the off season don’t just look for clothing, look for shoes, accessories and handbags. Anything that you know or even think would have been available in the previous season will now be marked down to sell fast.

3. Since we have all become children of the technology age, why not use it for a greater purpose. Like signing up for email coupons and sale notifications. It may sound like a waste of time but it makes a big difference to your bank account when you get a 50% off coupon or you get a notice to preview a 75% off sale the day before it’s announced in the store. All of these things can help prevent your shopping budget from taking a huge hit, also don’t forget to check out the Sunday paper to find great bargains and coupons there too; this will help round off your look without killing off your wallet.


4. For those who crave high end fashions don’t overlook the vintage or second hand shops. I know some of you will scoff at the very thought of wearing items that someone else already had on, but I am here to tell you that these items are practically new, worn only a few times and then given away. Items like Fendi bags, or sexy pair of Jimmy Choo’s, jeans by some of the top designers for 60% to 70% off. Many of these stores are gaining notoriety for carrying authentic high end goods and unique items and if the Hollywood elite can enjoy shopping at these boutiques to save money why can’t we.

While these things may be just the tip of the iceberg I can tell you that they will help you save money and still allow you to shop without fear of breaking the bank open and taking money from the kids college fund.

Always Keep it Simple and Sexy.