Be a Steal-Seeking Missile

 The first trick in any fashonista-on-a-budget's book should be the ability to sniff out the best quality fashions at the lowest possible price. This takes a little practice, patience and sometimes just plain luck. Every once and a while I will post my latest and greatest find along with the retail price and the price I actually paid for it. Let's start with these boots. They're Naughty Monkey charcoal gray suede ankle boots. The small heel is covered by the slouchy fold over look. Ordinarily I don't care much for studs but I found that these were tastefully done and I've been jonsing for a pair of fashion-forward ankle boots for the fall.

These boots retail for around $90. I found myself cruising Amazon.com one day (as I do most days, it is one of my favorite places for awesome deals) and I was able to purchase these fabulous shoes for... wait for it... $35! Brand new, never worn, original packaging; the whole nine. I jumped on them with only two pairs left in stock. And let me tell you, I am beyond satisfied! I look for any excuse to wear them. 

My second deal of the week I came across at a DSW store. I was just taking an evening walk with my late afternoon latte and I decided I would just take a peek inside. I try to avoid DSW because I will get myself and my credit card into a lot of trouble if I made it a regular habit. After cruising the aisles a little I wandered over to the clearance bin.

Ah, the clearance section- the ultimate hit or miss situation. This time it didn't take too much digging for me to come across this buttery-soft black leather tote by Marc Ecko.

Again, I am not really one for studs but these were just enough to make the bag edgy, yet classy. And trust me when I say softest leather I currently own!

Retail price: $100 (not bad in and of itself for a mid-level designer bag) 

However, the price paid: $40

I couldn't resist. I need another purse like I need a huge gaping hole in my head, but my little shopping devil that's always sitting on my shoulder rationalized the purchase by whispering softly in my ear: "You will so regret not buying this bag."

So, ladies, always be on the look-out. These deals are everywhere. You can step out in a $500 outfit that you paid $150 for, I swear!

The lesson today:

1. The clearance section is not the enemy. It may take patience and a LOT of failed attempts but eventually you will find that perfect piece that you could never afford for a price lower than you could hope for.
2. Be an Amazon, eBay, Groupon Stalker! They are constantly practically giving fabulous expensive things away.

As always- good luck, ladies, and have fun!