In the blogging world, online retailers get all the attention because let's face it, if you can't click-to-buy, why tease a product? But of course, there are a number of great sources for budget fashion offline that deserve some press, too. So here's a round-up of 10 brick-and-mortar chains you should check out even if you can't shop for their merchandise on the web (at least, not yet!). Let me know what I missed in the comments.
1. Marshalls: This off-price retailer's unique business model makes it difficult to run an effective e-commerce gig, but that hasn't hurt Marshalls' bottom line in the least. I'm willing to shop in person if it helps keep prices low. Find a store
2. TJ Maxx: Like Marshalls (its sister company), TJ Maxx offers department store brands without the department store prices on everything from home goods to designer shoes. If you have the patience and know your style, you're guaranteed to score some amazing deals at TJ's. Find a store
3. Strawberry: I've only been to Strawberry once on N Broadway in Chicago (although according to a review on Yelp.com, that store has since closed) but it seemed like a good place for super cheap trendy basics. If you live in the NYC area, hit up Strawberry for inexpensive tees, flip-flops and other juniors apparel. Find a store
4. Stein Mart: Before you head to Macy's, check out Stein Mart, another chain that carries department store brands at a discount. I don't live near a Stein Mart but I have friends who shop there all the time. They also have great coupons, so sign up for their email newsletters for the latest deals, sales and printable coupons. Find a store
5. Joyce Leslie: This store serves up hot and trendy juniors fashions to residents of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut. Since we didn't have these back in Chicago, Joyce Leslie is on my short list of places to check out soon. Find a store
6. Rainbow: The selective fashionista will find a treasure-trove of cute and trendy pieces at this nation-wide chain, with most items under $20. Look past the hoochie club gear and you'll do fine. Find a store
7. Dressbarn: To be honest, I've never shopped at Dressbarn because I don't like the name: A barn is the last place I want to shop for fashion. However, a friend of mine recently told me they've upped their styles and she found a beautiful LBD to wear to a wedding for $30, so I promise to shop there soon! Find a store
8. Dots: In addition to juniors, misses and plus size apparel, Dots carries accessories and work appropriate attire. If you have an eye for style, and live in the northeastern, southern or midwestern U.S., you'll find some gems at Dots, especially in the dress department. Just about everything's under $20. Find a store
9. Bob's Stores: Here's another chain that serves states in the northeast. I'll admit the name kinda makes me cringe (who wants to buy fashion at a place called "Bob's"??) but if you want cheap athletic wear or some work boots, you'll find it at Bob's. Find a store
10: Discovery: Aw. Discovery holds a special place in my heart, and if you grew up in Chicago you'd know why because Discovery just keeps it real. It is not high fashion by any means, but it's a place to find fun and oftentimes outrageous fashions under $20. Find a store
1. Marshalls: This off-price retailer's unique business model makes it difficult to run an effective e-commerce gig, but that hasn't hurt Marshalls' bottom line in the least. I'm willing to shop in person if it helps keep prices low. Find a store
2. TJ Maxx: Like Marshalls (its sister company), TJ Maxx offers department store brands without the department store prices on everything from home goods to designer shoes. If you have the patience and know your style, you're guaranteed to score some amazing deals at TJ's. Find a store
3. Strawberry: I've only been to Strawberry once on N Broadway in Chicago (although according to a review on Yelp.com, that store has since closed) but it seemed like a good place for super cheap trendy basics. If you live in the NYC area, hit up Strawberry for inexpensive tees, flip-flops and other juniors apparel. Find a store
4. Stein Mart: Before you head to Macy's, check out Stein Mart, another chain that carries department store brands at a discount. I don't live near a Stein Mart but I have friends who shop there all the time. They also have great coupons, so sign up for their email newsletters for the latest deals, sales and printable coupons. Find a store
5. Joyce Leslie: This store serves up hot and trendy juniors fashions to residents of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut. Since we didn't have these back in Chicago, Joyce Leslie is on my short list of places to check out soon. Find a store
6. Rainbow: The selective fashionista will find a treasure-trove of cute and trendy pieces at this nation-wide chain, with most items under $20. Look past the hoochie club gear and you'll do fine. Find a store
7. Dressbarn: To be honest, I've never shopped at Dressbarn because I don't like the name: A barn is the last place I want to shop for fashion. However, a friend of mine recently told me they've upped their styles and she found a beautiful LBD to wear to a wedding for $30, so I promise to shop there soon! Find a store
8. Dots: In addition to juniors, misses and plus size apparel, Dots carries accessories and work appropriate attire. If you have an eye for style, and live in the northeastern, southern or midwestern U.S., you'll find some gems at Dots, especially in the dress department. Just about everything's under $20. Find a store
9. Bob's Stores: Here's another chain that serves states in the northeast. I'll admit the name kinda makes me cringe (who wants to buy fashion at a place called "Bob's"??) but if you want cheap athletic wear or some work boots, you'll find it at Bob's. Find a store
10: Discovery: Aw. Discovery holds a special place in my heart, and if you grew up in Chicago you'd know why because Discovery just keeps it real. It is not high fashion by any means, but it's a place to find fun and oftentimes outrageous fashions under $20. Find a store
Great post, I always love shpping for deals
Marshalls is pretty fun sometimes, though. You just have to look around. They usually have good shoes, too.
I recently went back east and got four dresses at Gabe's - for less than $13 each. Also picked up some footless tights for a dollar, some brand name tops for 6 bucks (they had a big Ann Taylor buyout). I'm getting nostalgic just thinking about it!!
i have found so many pieces of clothing there that have lasted me AGES!! you just gotta look well within the store..TJ MAXX & marshalls are in my list too i have found coach & guess shoes here, (nice ones better looking than there outlets)..
It's funny because I'm 22, and most of the people in there when I go are elderly. Haha. I love hidden treasures.
i really need to get to marshalls or tjmaxx... they're so close to me but i NEVER go! :o(
They are a great spot for random home accessories as well as is the sister store Home Goods. LOVE your blog!
Please check out mine if you have time! TrimmedandTaylored.blogspot.com. Just got started.
Loehmann's is another great one in my neck of the woods (southern California). Kind of like a Nordstrom Rack.