What a dilemma it can be. To choose quality over quantity. Sometimes the answer lies somewhere in between. Following are some examples, just for starters. The sole purpose of the entry is to reframe your thinking.
Office supplies:
Do you need a ream of paper or a case? Unless you are printing a large project, the dollar store or even discount store will do just nicely. The same can be said about pens and pencils. Printer ink, on the other hand would better to buy elsewhere. But are you really stashing cash by doing either?
Here’s a better way:
Order online. First search the item on *Swagbucks. From experience, *Office Depot is a good option. Not only will they deliver to your door (which is a godsend if you have to carry your purchases up stairs!) If you have an *Office Depot rewards card, you will receive a gift card twice a year after spending a set amount. Win! Win! Win!
Clothing:
Yes, you can find cheap clothing, but you will definitely get what you pay for. Consignment stores are good, as long as they truly look for quality items. A good example for young adult and teen clothing is *Plato’s Closet. Not only can you make money by selling gently used clothes to them, but you receive a discount on your next purchase as well. Dollar days at stores are becoming a thing of the past, but stores are more and more desperate to get you into the doors. Be wary of places that seem to always have the same items on sale.
Clothing is such a personal item, it’s difficult to repeat the “order online….” stream. This is going to take more planning than most other areas.
Other ideas:
Download the *RetailMeNot app for discounts at nearby retailers.
If you know the pair of jeans you want at *Macy’s is going to be $50, go to *Swagbucks and purchase an e-Gift Card and send it to yourself. When it hits your e-mail account, head over to *Macy’s! Win! Win!
Accessories, shoes and purses
Just like clothing, you get what you pay for here. You can spend $20 five times a year on a pair of shoes, or save up to buy a $100 pair that will last you the same amount of time. The exception to this rule would be items like sunglasses (or even reading glasses.) If you’re in the habit of misplacing the item, stock up at the dollar store!
What about special occasions? This can be a stickler. If you are the lucky person chosen to be the Maid of Honor at your bestie’s wedding, you’re pretty much stuck with the cost of the dress. Otherwise, you might consider renting a formal dress. Yes, ladies! It’s not just for guys any longer. If you live in or near a city with a thriving arts community, some playhouses rent costumes. It never hurts to ask. Again consignment stores are a good option as well. The *OfferUp app could be an option for you as well. Not only to purchase the item, but re-sale it as well.
Other ideas:
At the risk of sounding like a recording, head to Swagbucks. There are tons of sites that you can purchase items online and get credit for. Or (again) purchase an E-gift card and head to the store. Win! Win!
These are just a few examples, but you get the general idea. If you have something that has worked in an amazing way for you, leave a comment!
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