The Great Sale Debate
What’s in a sale?
We’ve been mulling this one over and still haven’t decided – what makes a sale a “good sale”? Sure, there’s the textbook definition – any discount at all – but that doesn’t say it all.
There’s a fine line between full-price and free-99.
See, I’m a diehard bargain hunter. I get it from my mama. I rarely buy online without at least a free shipping code (extreme couponing tip: retailmenot.com) and will stalk an item IRL until it hits rock bottom.
My hawkeye has scored Balenciaga platforms for under $100 (at DSW) by holding out for what felt like years. And It was worth it.
It takes me at least 30% off to bat an eyelash. I won’t scoff at 10% off, but that’s basically just covering the tax or shipping which, while appreciated, isn’t worth fighting over.
Faran and Ali might also hold out for a price drop, but take their discounts on a case-by-case basis. Even 50% off isn’t always a “good deal” if that skirt is still well over $5000 (like Dolce & Gabbana skirt at left).
On the other hand, we’re all baffled by the occasional “11%” off sale and generally agree that the “flash sale” just isn’t what it used to be.
But there are those rare instances something’s so good I’ll get it full-price. And occasionally, I do have regrets when a coveted item sells out for good while I was being thrifty (fine, cheap, whatever).
Below, a few of our sale tip that we maybe shouldn’t divulge… care to share yours with the class? Or if you’re keeping tight-lipped: what was your best score ever?
xo Jazzi
- yoox.com: their search function is generally useless, but it’s the online equivalent of digging through a sample sale pile. Eventually, you might strike gold! We often do…
- search eBay for misspelled designer names. We’re not talking crazy obvious fakes, but we’ve seen the occasional very vey real “Dries van Notan”. Keep to the smaller or indie designers generally to avoid knockoffs.
- “Shop for your body, not your brand loyalty,” says Faran. I couldn’t agree more. On that note, don’t buy the heels if you can’t walk in them.
- Price-match. With so many online sales, retailers are competing for your dollars. If you see it cheaper elsewhere, it’s worth a shot. Revolveclothing.com & Nordstrom are usually great at this.