I hate buying clothes at full price. But sometimes there is no choice—especially when a new season begins. Having fresh clothes in my wardrobe gives my style a new lease of life which always propels me to browse the new arrivals section and add something I don’t need to my cart.If you have control of your impulses, you could wait until the clothes go on sale. However, there will always be a risk of the garment being out of stock in your size.
Shopping during a sale is not the only way to shed money off the retail price. From loyalty programmes to newsletters, there are many methods to get the best prices all season round. Here are my ways to save money when buying clothes.
1. JOIN A LOYALTY PROGRAMME
One of the easiest ways to save money is to join a loyalty programme. Not many high street brands have one, but H&M has unique ways to earn while you spend.
2. SUBSCRIBE TO A NEWSLETTER
A lot of brands have a subscription offer when you subscribe to their newsletter. To ensure that your primary email account is not clogged up with the spam, I recommend using a junk email address that has the sole function of collating your junk mail. To further benefit from this discount, create multiple email accounts. Usually, the discount is 10% for new subscribers.
3. JOIN TOPCASHBACK
Topcashback is a website that offers you a percentage return when you spend. All you have to do is register and make sure you purchase the product using the link they provide.
What’s the catch?
It takes a while for the money to get past the pending stage. After that, you are free to withdraw from your PayPal or bank account.
Any charges?
No, but if you have a plus account, you have more rewards but a £5 deduction free from all money withdrawals.
4. BENEFIT FROM BEING A STUDENT
Students always benefit from the best discount. Check your student website (in the UK its Unidays) to see what permanent and limited offers are available for students.
5. WAIT FOR SALE / SEASONAL OFFERS
Waiting to buy clothes during the sale period requires discipline and patience. There is a risk that the item you have been after could go out of stock, but the risk is worth it. Depending on the sale season you can get up to 50% of the original price. Stay alert. Register for updates and keep your eye out when shopping on the high street.
6. SHOP AT AN OUTLET
Outlet shopping is one of my favourite ways to save money. While you won’t be buying the latest fashion, you will have the past season priced at a fraction of the original retail price. Some brands have an online outlet while other brands have dedicated stores that stock their outlet clothes.
What are some of your tips to save money when buying clothes?