by Nicole Fernandes

Created on: May 25, 2009

We can all remember the days we walked into the department store with our mothers bolting to the sales rack while we sullenly followed behind her. Oh the agony and pain we went through as she threw handfuls of clearance items into our arms, weighing our bodies down to the point of malfunction. Our faces flushed as though we pasted twelve layers of blush on our cheeks from the embarrassment of having to buy cheap clothing. And just when we thought things couldn't possibly be any worse, the boy whose name we secretly scribbled hearts around on our school papers would walk by with his mother. Our panic to hide our face takes over the senses and becomes priority, not that the attempt was even necessary due to the mountain of clothes we held towering above us.

I hate to say it, well not really, but our mothers definitely had the right idea when it comes to bargain shopping. The practice we once shunned has now become one we can embrace with open arms without the wide-open wallets. For the past decade our society has become more obsessed with fashion and brand names than ever before. Ten year old girls are now walking around wearing John Galliano knits and carrying Juicy Couture handbags, a luxury handbag that even I could not bare to splurge on until recently. Thankfully, our mothers have paved the road to a cheaper wardrobe that can equally compete with Eva Longoria and Sarah Jessica Parker.

No matter how big your budget, you can always find discounted clothing and accessories wherever you go. Knowing where and when to look is key when searching for those hidden, or not so-hidden, bargains. Patience is a must and if the effort is put into your shopping, an amazing wardrobe is by all means possible.

Department stores such as Macy's and Kohl's will always have sales and clearance racks galore due to the constant intake of new clothing. Stores known for their discounted items such as Ross and Marshalls are worth taking a trip to as long as you have the time to search through their numerous racks. Discontinued lingerie racks are always a steal when found since lingerie can be pricey, and the items are usually under $10. When it comes to pricier brand names, outlet malls can definitely have their perks. Juicy Couture, BCBG, and Guess stores can have items discounted at 50% or even more. Also, outlet malls often have a coupon book that can be purchased at the information office or even for free if you present a membership card such as AAA.

Timing is also

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