Solving the Discount Store Problem

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

Discount stores, such as T.J. Max, Ross, Marshalls, etc. can be a great way to save money on top-notch designer clothing and accessories. Name-brand items often sell for 30 percent of their original value at these types of places. But, there is one problem with these stores that most people have. Here is a way to solve that problem.

The problem I am talking about in regard to the discount stores has to do with sizes. Very often, the merchandise you will find in these stores come in sizes that most people don't wear. These are the left over sizes that were purchased from the designer stores. So, it is easy to find men's belts in extra large sizes, for example, or dresses in any size but 10, 12, and 14, the most popular sizes.

You can still take advantage of the bargains, though, if you know the secret. It is really simple, too. Most times, you can purchase your favorite items and then have them altered. The alteration cost is minimal, compared to the savings you will know as you walk around in impressive designer clothing.

For that extra large men's belt? Take it to a show repair shop. The shop can remove the buckle, shorten the belt and reattach the buckle. This should cost a mere $5 or less.

For dresses, skirts and pants, buy the next largest size and bring the item in to a tailor or dry cleaner, who can do a quick alteration. Of course, if you are handy with a sewing machine, you can save the extra expense of the tailor. Still, the tailor won't cost much, and you'll have that great item.

You can sometime let out an item that is in a smaller size. Check the inside seams to see how much material you might have to work with, before you purchase the item.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, online content manager, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania in the middle of the woods but close enough to Target and Home Depot.

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