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1.3 YOUR SHOPPING ATTITUDE; DISCOUNT CLOTHES AND CLOTHING.
As
with most money-saving techniques, planning and flexibility will save you a small
fortune.
Having
a master list of clothes that you would like to buy in the next year (but not in the next
week), allows you to gradually put your wardrobe together as you run across clothes that
meet your needs. By being flexible, you can take advantage of garage sales and store
sales.
However,
impulse buying can be very expensive, especially if you put the purchase on a credit card.
If
shopping for clothes is a chore you dread, then stick to store wide annual sales and
private label sales. These should give you a great selection at good prices with full
service.
If
shopping for clothing is a hobby or an adventure, then clearance sales, outlet centers and
used clothing stores might be something you would enjoy.
Just
don't make the mistake of driving hours to an outlet shopping center determined to find a
certain outfit. You will be disappointed.
1.3.1 LEARN TO RECOGNIZE QUALITY
If
you know quality when you see it, you can get a good deal at a thrift store, an outlet, or
at a private label sale at a department store. Here are some pointers that most experts
agree on.
==
Turn the clothing inside out
While
the outside is what you will be looking at, it is the inside that tells you about the
quality of the workmanship.
Are
the seams finished properly? Are there any loose threads? Is any of the stitching in
danger of unraveling? Are the stitches small and even? Is there double stitching at stress
areas? Is the lining adequate and does it fit well? Do the pockets lie flat?
==
Outside appearance
Does
the pattern match at all the seams? Are the buttons secure and the buttonholes the right
size and reinforced? Are the buttons sewed on well? Is the zipper too heavy for the
material?
==
Expert tips
Mary
Johnson who worked in the clothing industry gave me these tips:
Clothing
made from natural fibers (wool, cotton) will generally last longer and wear better. If the
fabric is a mix, then choose clothing that has more natural fibers than synthetic (for
example, 70% cotton and 30% polyester).
Look
for cloth with more threads per inch. This kind of cloth will hang better and last
longer.
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