Wednesday, October 03, 2012

Guest Post: Tips and Tricks on how to shop for great deals on designer items from online store owner Natasha Robinson


Tasha Robinson of Imperfect Concepts online boutique has an eye for finding designer items for her online second hand store.  I thought it would be fun to have her share some of her tips and tricks for finding designer items at a great price.


Celine tote, Isabel Marant Wedges, Hermes “H” belt are all the must haves of a true fashionista but does one go break the bank just to have the latest and greatest “it” pieces. No, not if you’re a smart resourceful fashionista like I am.  You use your resources and score those items at the fraction of the cost. Becoming the envy of all your fashionista friends, Instagram followers and of the blogsphere.

BFF with Sales Associates
I own a Helmut Lang Leather Lamb Jacket retail price $800 but that’s not what I paid. More of $250 dollars was given to my best friend who works at a high-end department store. It pays to have friends in high places when it comes to fashion. At her store they get double time twice a year meaning certain items are close to 70% off. What does that mean for you? Find a good friend at your favorite department store they will give you the heads up when items are going on sale. I lucked and got her discount but you can luck up and get the scoop on Neiman Marcus shoe sale.

Consignment, Resale & Ebay
Are the place to be when comes to get high-end designers for the fraction of the cost. Over the last two years several famous consignment stores across the US have landed reality tv shows.  These companies have clients who come in cosign their items they no longer need. If you are looking for a Louis Vuitton Speedy you can possibly find one for less than $500 at your local consignment shop or in-depth search on Ebay.

Outlet Mall
Gucci, Prada, Saks, Chanel, Neiman’s, Fendi and many more have stores in outlet malls now-a-days. I have a personal shopper at most of the outlet stores. Gucci Boston bag for $299 why not. Neiman Marcus tweets out 40% off coupons for the NMLC for additional saving on top of the saving they already have. Two years ago while shopping NMLC I discovered an Escada on the racks by the time I got to the register and not noticing it was additional 75% off the skirt came out to be $14.

Flash Sale
24-72 hours to score the deal of your life. Recently Groupon did a Gucci purse sale for 45% off original price marking certain items down to $600. Glit Groupe is the company most people are familiar when it comes to “flash sale”. I remember scoring Louboutin’s for $200. Score of the century to me.  Rue La La has had numerous vintage Hermes & Louis Vuitton sales through out the year. All the sites have email list to sign up with so you can be notified when sales will be coming up. Some sites have calendars within their company site.

Fashionista you have many avenues to find great designer pieces at the fraction of the cost. Keep your eyes open for sales. 

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