Since I shared that post about Clara’s clothes, I’ve had a surprising number of requests to explain how I save money on my own wardrobe, what my go-to pieces are, and how I avoid blowing through my “momdrobe.” I’m no fashionista — that thought makes me laugh — but I do enjoy finding good deals. Below is a clear, practical rundown of how I save when shopping for myself, the sale strategies I use, and a few simple dressing rules that stop me from buying items I’ll regret or never wear.
I’d love to hear your tips, too. Share your favorite ways to score deals and resist unnecessary purchases in the comments!
Tip #1: Simply ask. I once found a dress at Old Navy with no price tag. When I asked, they told me it was an online-only return and marked it 50% off for in-store sale. A $30 dress became $15, and I was able to stack a mailer coupon on top of that. It never hurts to ask — you might uncover a hidden discount.
Tip #2: Organize coupons. Keep coupons in one place and track expiration dates. Having them organized saves money and prevents you from missing deals you’ve already earned.
Tip #3: Learn store rules and stack discounts. Many stores offer cardholder perks or weekday discounts. For example, certain brands give an additional percentage off on specific days or issue store credit after purchases that can be applied later. I once used a promotional voucher, shopped on a discount day, and bought an online-return item that was marked down — combining those savings cut my total significantly. Shopping strategically and stacking offers can produce big savings.
Tip #4: Identify favorite retailers and learn their patterns. Knowing which stores fit your style speeds up shopping and reduces returns. It also helps you predict sale patterns and what sizes or cuts work for you. I frequently check outlets and discount retailers during seasonal sales where items can be 50–70% off. My go-to stores for staples and deals include several mainstream and outlet shops, plus discount shoe and accessory retailers.
Tip #5: Don’t water down your wardrobe. I think of my closet in terms of an “average score.” If most of my favorite outfits rate a ten and I buy a sweater I’d only rate a seven, that lower-rated item drags down the overall closet quality. Keeping a high “closet average” helps me avoid impulse purchases that won’t get much wear. It’s a simple mental check that reduces clutter and leads to a wardrobe filled with pieces you actually love.
Tip #6: Know what flatters you. I’m 5’2″ and have a short neck, so V-necks lengthen my silhouette and generally look best on me. Knowing your best cuts and necklines saves time trying on styles that won’t work and prevents purchases driven by color or brand rather than fit. When a garment doesn’t flatter your body type, you’re less likely to wear it, no matter how pretty it is.
Tip #7: Think about pairings before you buy. Before I buy something new, I picture it with items I already own. If a red pencil skirt will work with a favorite black tee and leopard heels I already have, it’s a smarter purchase than a stand-alone piece that requires more new items to integrate. Choose pieces that can slot into existing outfits and create multiple looks.
Here’s an example: a simple colored tank under a blazer is versatile and inexpensive. Tanks are easy to layer and less specific than large-patterned sweaters, so they tend to get more use.
Tip #8: Spend on quality for everyday items. For pieces you use constantly — like a purse or a coat — investing in better construction pays off. I’ve found that buying one well-made bag that lasts several years can cost about the same as repeatedly replacing cheaper bags. I don’t mean extreme luxury; a mid-range piece that holds up makes more financial sense over time. I also look for these items at outlets or discount stores to balance cost and quality.
Tip #9: Use accessories to refresh basics. Accessories are an easy, budget-friendly way to add personality. Bright shoes, bold earrings, or a distinctive bag can transform a basic outfit without requiring an entirely new wardrobe. I often pair a black top and jeans with colorful heels or statement earrings for a quick style boost that still works with daily life and parenting duties.
Tip #10: Let one element shine. Avoid competing focal points. If your outfit has a bold printed dress, choose neutral accessories. If you’re wearing big statement earrings, keep the rest of the outfit simple. This helps outfits look intentional, prevents visual clutter, and makes dressing for events easier — you can plan ahead instead of trying everything on in frustration.
Tip #11: Make your own rules. Take advice that fits your body and lifestyle and ignore the rest. Fashion tips can be helpful, but they’re not one-size-fits-all. Embrace silhouettes, colors, and pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable, even if they don’t fit every trend or tip you read.
Finally, it’s okay to keep things practical. I wear my hair up most days to avoid messes from projects and kids, but every so often I’ll wear it down. Now it’s your turn — share how you save on clothing, where you splurge, and what strategies keep your closet full of pieces you love without breaking the bank.