7 Tips for Shopping Designers for Less

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Every once in a while we spot something that we absolutely can't resist and after clicking the image to see the brand and price... you're immediately gut punched after reading all the numbers between one decimal. You've then given up the idea of item completely at this point...but, there may be several outlets for discounted pricing that you may be forgetting...

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Insert: this post! I've been an avid bargain shopper for a while now- thanks to my mom for showing me the ropes of Ebay many years ago. I learned how to search brands and items and uncover items that had been sought after for half the price. Not only did I buy on Ebay but I would also sell my designer items on the site as well. Ebay is really a win-win for both! I recently started shopping and selling on Poshmark as well but personally for me- the buying experience is better from Ebay- there's more options and it's easier to review ratings and what the seller has previously sold- this is an important factor especially when buying high-end designer items.

Most recently I was on the hunt for wedding shoes. From the moment Big placed that blue Manolo Blahnik in Carrie Bradshaw's hands as a proposal (back in 2008)... I knew that I wanted those shoes for my wedding one day. After getting engaged this past April the hunt was on...most brides immediately go on the hunt for the dress... not me...I was on the hunt for the shoes. I would scour the sales but never really wanted to spend almost 1000.00 on a pair of shoes...I turned to Ebay. There I found an array of colors, heel heights and the option to buy new or used. I could buy a brand new sparkly pair for roughly half the price of shopping retail. I searched and searched each day to see which pair caught my eye for the right price- thankfully for Mother's Day - Chris gifted me my dream shoes but I still had to pick them out. I finally decided on pair after researching the seller and authenticating the shoes- I got the shoes for less than half the price and they are absolutely stunning!

(shop my total look and similar options below)

My second find is the Tory Burch slides that I've been eyeing... while they have been on major sale the price was still a little steep for my wallet. I searched for them on Ebay and viola! NEW IN BOX Tory Burch pearl slides for 80% off!

The point is- I always try to be savvy and resourceful when shopping for higher priced items. I've put together a few pointers for shopping and selling on Ebay and Poshmark to help you save or to add a few extra dollars into your pocket!

1. Search the site- sometimes sellers will have the specific title of the item but something they don't know... so do basic searches- instead of Tory Burch Tatiana slides... search maybe Tory Burch pearl or just Tory Burch.

Shop Tory Burch slides here /similar option here

2. Always price compare- if I'm searching on Ebay and find the item... I'll research the items on another site to make sure the product is the best price for the best quality.

3. Buy it now gives instant satisfaction but if the offer button is there... why not use it. I find that a lot of times sellers will AT LEAST take off 10.00 from the list price with this feature.

4. For selling- I'm constantly going through my closet- think practicality, trendy or you don't wear it because it's uncomfortable... get rid of it! I make the option easier knowing that if I sell this piece- I'll get another piece with the funds I make. Poshmark is really great about allowing you to run discounts with shipping and bundles and lets you efficiently communicate with the buyers. Another fun fact is the send you the shipping label - so you just print and ship!

5. Compare prices for items on high demand. The floral jumpsuit I recently wore in a post was purchased for 25.00 on the Zara sale- it was a complete hit everywhere and now it's sold out. The price has doubled and even tripled on Ebay for this item - so price accordingly!

6. Make sure you do a complete review of the product you're purchasing to ensure it's exactly in the condition that you prefer. If you're ever hesitant...contact the seller. Poshmark will authenticate higher priced items for you. 

7. Listing your item is super easy. I love to shop eBay and list on Poshmark but both are great in either way you use them. I just love the ability to snap a pick from the Poshmark app on my phone- put in a few details and list the item within just a couple of minutes.

Lastly, consignment boutiques are great- you can find great pieces for a fraction of the cost- however, you can't always offer a price since it's usually set between the store and the seller. If you're out shopping and not looking for something in particular- I highly suggest them! I really enjoy City Girl Consignment, Consign the Times - both in South Florida and Dress in Raleigh, NC. You can always shop their Instagram pages as some will offer shipping for a small fee.

If you have any favorite tips, tricks or consignment stores... be sure to let me know about them!