Never pay full price!

The majority of retailers, especially large chains, rotate their merchandise several times a season. Each holiday brings on a new wave of sales. So remember when you find yourself absolutely loving an item from the new collection, chances are it will be on sale in a few months or even weeks. The key to this rule is to check your favorite stores often enough, so you don’t miss the point at which the beautiful sweater or comforter that caught your eye becomes reduced while still in stock.

This strategy also allows you to evaluate how much you want or need the item in the first place. Were you drawn to the sweater because you saw it in a glossy magazine on a model a foot taller and 3 sizes smaller than you ? Or was it because it would be a perfect thing to wear to an upcoming party and goes perfectly with a skirt you already have? Will that comforter that looked great in Martha Stewart Living totally clash with the color scheme in your guest bedroom? A successful bargain shopper is one who always makes thoughtful purchases.

Stock up on staples during sales

While browsing the sales racks , always look for items that you may need to replace soon or will need in the near future. For instance, if you have received a wedding invitation in the mail and happen to see a great outfit while looking for new work clothes, don’t necessarily overlook it just because the event is 2 months away. Even if that killer diet works and you miraculously lose 10 pounds, almost any garment can be taken in. If you wait to lose the weight or count on last minute shopping, you may find yourself paying full price the day before the event. Stocking up on wardrobe staples when they’re on sale is another great way to save. Even one annual trip to Victoria Secret during the last two days of their semi-annual sales can save time and money all in one shot. Collect your favorites in every color and proudly wear snowflake bikinis through the summer heat. Just remember to establish what your wardrobe staples are prior to finding yourself mesmerized by a display of embroidered velvet suits.

Buy seasonal items at the end of the season.

The best deals on most items are found towards the end of the season. Air conditioners and shorts are cheapest in August while the prices for ski equipment and cashmere sweaters are lowest in February. Although your mind may have already moved on to the next season’s items, your bargain shopper instinct should keep you planted among the clearance merchandise. As long as you choose classic cuts and patterns that flatter your figure and complexion, the items will never go out of style and look amazing for years to come. However, this rule can also lead to a big pitfall – acquiring a useless article simply because of the bargain price. A new fancy kitchen gadget won’t turn you into Emeril if you detest cooking – at any price.

Shop at outlets

Any self-respecting bargain hunter should know the location of the nearest outlet shopping center, its directory of stores and operating hours. Before each visit, think of stores you’d like to visit. This way you’ll have a plan of action and won’t aimlessly wander from store to store. Often, it helps to download the mall directory and park close to the cluster of your favorite stores. Outlet centers usually have sales at times similar to traditional stores but the savings can be more significant. Additional promotional savings are common early in the day, so it pays to arrive in the morning. You’ll also score a great parking spot and avoid the crowds.

Take advantage of special online offers

Store charge cards are a great way to rack in extra benefits. The savings may include free gift wrap, advance sale notice, additional coupons, 10% off every first Tuesday of the month, free shipping, birthday discount and so on. However, be aware that they tend to carry a higher APR than bank-issued cards. If you don’t need or can’t obtain another credit card, signing up on the store’s website can often bring just as many benefits without any hidden costs. By just providing your email address, you will be barraged with weekly and monthly sale offers, enough to max out the cards you already own. Sign up for announcements and you’ll also be the first to know when the new wave of reductions has hit the store.

Julie Muchnik (aka Vishenka) has become the iMSN’s often -sought fashion advisor. She is writing a special series for MDFamily in the hopes of improving us all, one outfit at a time.