Designer duds – for fashionistas around the world, they are a must-have. But with the economy in the crapper and most of us on a college student or recent graduate budget, finding the cash flow for those lovely labels is a lot harder than drooling over them. However, it is possible to find designer apparel and accessories at very discounted prices without having to elbow some other fashionista in the aisle at TJ Maxx, Loehmann’s or Filene’s Basement.

Just hit the internet.

While the prices are oftentimes still much higher than those pieces you love grabbing at Target, Old Navy, Forever 21 or H&M, many of these items are much higher in quality and can be wardrobe staples for many years to come.

I am personally obsessed with designer denim, shoes and handbags. I don’t have the salary to allow me to buy whatever I want at their normal price and I don’t own a credit card (for good reason – it would’ve been maxed out ages ago), so I have to look for deals. Enter my saviors for retail therapy on a budget:

Overstock.com: This site is a gem! You may not always find exactly what you want, but you can find some great stuff here at even better prices. I got my bf 2 sweaters and a button down shirt that were each originally $75/piece, for $15 each! You can also find great home goods here for awesomely affordable prices.

Bluefly: While things here are oftentimes still pretty pricey, they do give a good percentage off, and I check here often because when they have sales, you can find phenomenal deals. Read More »

Ok, I confess. I went to Macy’s on 34th street this weekend. I did a lot of shopping. I spent a lot of money. On myself.

The guilt set in and now this weekend is all about shopping for my family and friends.

Then I found hautelook.com. Sh*t.

Avert your eyes! This site is amazing but a total drain on your wallet (due to selection–not prices!). Just in case you’re willing to spend some cash on some discounted designer duds here’s the lowdown:

Hautelook.com is a member-only site where the user can sign up to receive discounts on major designer apparel–up to 75% off!

You gain access to sample sales days before everyone else. And if you know anything about real-life sample sales…this is a Godsend. No more elbows to the face, disgruntled bitches, and long lines! It’s a Christmas miracle! Read More »