Department Store Deals

When is the best time to shop at department stores?

The best time to shop is definitely on a weekday because you will miss the crowds, obviously. Probably on a Monday morning is the best time you can go because not a lot of people are up shopping on a Monday morning; only the serious shoppers. And also, a half an hour before closing because maybe there were some sales. They're trying to unload some merchandise, and they might have some sales they didn't in the morning. Also, you won't find as many people in the store at night.

What are the benefits of an off-price department store?

There are so many glorious benefits when shopping at an off-price department stores. If you head to a Marshall's, Ross's, TJ Maxx or whatever, you are going to find pieces that may have been from the previous season or even existing season. But, because they may have made too many or maybe the stitching was a bit off and ill-fitting, you are going to find really great designer pieces for a fraction of the price.

What are the secrets to finding a department store bargain?

When you're at the counter and making your purchases, they generally have postcards there, or a card that you can fill out that will enable you to join a mailing list. It's great to be on the mailing list because you can get all types of secret sale information and coupons that you'll be able to use for future purchases. Another thing is that if you look for the damaged items, you can generally get 10 to 15% off, like a manager's price, when something is even a bit off color. Don't go abusing that secret, though, ladies.

When do markdowns take place in department stores?

Markdowns usually happen about eight weeks after an item has come out, because that's usually how long the trend will last and they need to bring in their new merchandise. As they're moving their old merchandise out, you're going to get those markdowns on the clothes or on clearance. Sometimes it happens quicker. Always ask. Get on those mailing lists, but ask when their new shipments will come in or how often they will bring in new clothes. I know that with Target, every week they're changing their merchandise, whereas at Banana Republic is will usually happen eight weeks after the item hits the floor.

If an item goes on sale after I've bought it, can I still get the discount?

Sometimes if a sales associate buddies up to you, they might let you know when a sale is happening. If you buy an item at full price and let's say the sale happens two days later, keep the receipt, don't take off the buttons, label, whatever, bring it back, return it for the full price with the receipt, and then repurchase it for the sales price and use that extra money for something special for yourself.