5 Ways to Shop Smarter and Cheaper in 2019

We are getting serious about saving our coins in 2019.

Edward Gebel Photography

WHAT I’M WEARING:

Coat: Forever 21 (only $14) ; Sweater: via Goodwill ;  Pants: J. Crew ; Shoes: Saint Laurent ; Sunglasses: Givenchy ; Hair: SHOP JMTR

Of all the hats I frequently wear, researcher is one of my favorites. I take pride in searching for more knowledge, sales, deals, you name it. And in 2019, I’d like to share more ways to shop smarter while saving money. Of course the best way to save money is to not spend at all, but who can resist all the time? Shopping is fun, and so are clothes. The experience of buying new clothes can be fun, too. Especially when you buy clothes in a smart way!

1. Using ShopTagr App 

Last month I came across the coin saver that is ShopTagr. ShopTagr is a cell phone app that allows you to save items on a wish list. While browsing your favorite stores online, you can save items you love to the app. The app will notify you if the item is restocked or goes on sale. It’s simply genius! For the new year, I needed a 2019 Kate Spade Agenda refill. I saved the product on my app as a reminder to purchase before the new year. Two days ago I got a notification from ShopTagr that it was 40% off!

2. Selling Clothes Before Buying New Ones

Before buying new clothes, go through your closet and sell clothes you no longer wear on Poshmark, eBay, or consignment stores. Use the money to buy new clothes or even gifts for others!

3. Write a list in your phone on clothes you need

They say if you fail to plan, you plan to fail. This applies when it comes to shopping, as well. How often have we gone to the grocery store without a list, only to get home and realize we forget to buy apples? Shopping for clothes can be the same. If we don’t remind ourselves of the items we need, we will end up buying ones we don’t. I recommend keeping a list of two things: 1. clothes you need and 2. clothes you like. That way when you go shopping, you can reference your list and check it twice.

4. Place yourself on a spending threshold

As a fashion blogger, I’ve come to appreciate quality over quantity. I no longer splurge on trends that last for one season because I know I’ll more than likely stop wearing the trend in one year. As a result, I’ve given myself a $40 trend limit. If it’s a trending item, I’m not allowed to spend more than $40 on it. In addition, I make myself wait for two weeks before purchasing. If I still love and want it two weeks later, I’ll buy it for under $40. This limit has helped me to buy only things that I really love and turn away from things I simply like.

5. Consider borrowing

Have you ever purchased an outfit for a wedding or a graduation dinner? You ever spend so much money for one day and never wear the outfit again? Well may I introduce you to Rent the Runway? Rent the Runway allows you to borrow clothes for a small fee and return it when you’re done. They have a phenomenal designer collection at a fraction of the retail price, which helps you look your designer best during those one off events!