10 Budget Shopping Tips For Plus Size Clothing

Saving money is something I have written about often on Full Figure Plus.  Adding shopping for clothes to a budget for some people is very easy while for others it presents a challenge.  One of the reasons that I started the Dress for Success series is to offer discounts on trendy fashions that meet every budget.  It is not really hard to shop when funds are limited.  If you approach shopping for clothing with an open mind you can same some money and look good at the same time.

1. Shop off season - Now is the time to start thinking of Spring/Summer fashions.  After Thanksgiving stores will start to re-stock with the next seasons merchandise.  Savings can amount to as much as 60% depending on the item.
2. Make one big trip - Instead of going shopping every week religiously buying one piece at a time make 2-3 large shopping sprees over the year to solidify your wardrobe foundation.  Purchase additional pieces to go with the foundation.  You spend more upfront but save over time.
3. Build a wardrobe - If you have a wardrobe and not just a closet full of clothes you will be able to avoid unnecessary purchases.  A wardrobe consists of core items that can be worn in several combinations opposed to full outfits that limit your options.
4. Combine Items - Some stores will allow you to combine coupons with clearance items and sale items.  This combination can save you a lot of money especially on big ticket items of clothing.
5. Shop Online - Many plus size merchants offer better prices on their website than they do in the store.  In-store pickup is also becoming more popular which will save the cost of shipping and handling.
6. The day after the sale - Many stores put sale items on clearance after a sale.  Shopping during this time can save you a lot on certain items.
7. Shopping Clubs - Stores like Sam’s Club get shipments in limited quantities.  This is a cheap alternative to help you build the dressy casual side of your wardrobe.
8. A friends’ closet - All of us know that person that has a closet full of clothes they have never worn with the tag still on it.  Going shopping in your friends closet will save you money and a trip to the store.
9. Ask questions - Asking clerks when if the day that they normally get new shipments in will allow you to get new items as soon as they hit the store before the item is marked up.
10. Dry Cleaners - Find out when dry cleaners have sales for unclaimed items.  Though a long shot for plus sizes there are still gems that can be found this way.

As you can see shopping on a budget is just an exercise in being creative with your time and money.  Combining several steps or doing all 10 items can save you money in the long run and save on some of the frustration of not being able to find your size and being overcharged once you do find something.