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There used to be a time when wealthy people were the only ones who wore the very expensive designer clothes. As a teenager the only designer clothes I was able to wear were the brands sold at Hecht's department stores. Thus my choices were limited to Ralph Lauren, Guess, and Tommy. The bigger names such as Donna Karan, Gucci, and the like were definitely not in my budget. Beside, no one wore those clothes. All teenagers wish that their parents will willingly purchase a pair of $100 jeans, but it never happens. I promised myself that when I became older and got a job, I would buy the designer clothes that I wanted.

It did not take long for reality to hit. As teenagers we all make the mistake of thinking that getting older and making money will solve all our clothing and entertainment problems. I am no exception. Once I landed my first decent paying job, I quickly realized that money does not last long, especially when you are buying clothes. I was still living with my parent's; therefore I was able to go shopping with my first couple of paychecks. Admittedly I had fun going on shopping sprees twice a month. It was less fun coming to the realization that I needed to curtail my spending. Although I was buying the clothes I wanted, I was always broke. Designer clothes are expensive!

A tank top can easily cost $25, whereas a pair of jeans was over $70. Keep in mind that most of the clothes I bought were not top designer names. I liked designer clothes, but I needed to find a smarter way to buy them. Many are in the same situation as I was in. It seems that lately many people are more concerned about name brand fashions. Some parents with modest financial means are even purchasing these clothes for their children. True, designer clothes are made of better quality, and they look beautiful. However there is a better way to shop for them. There are several ways to get the designer clothes you want without emptying out your bank account. The key is shopping smart.

Shopping smart takes patience. Granted when some people are in a shopping mood, the last thing on their mind is being sensible. We all know what we want, and human tendency is to want what we want now. Still, taking your time when shopping will save you money, and makes it possible to get more for your buck. When shopping for expensive designer clothes it is important to remember the number one rule of shopping: Never pay full price. When clothing stores initially display their clothes for the new season, we are quick to purchase them. For example, clothing stores like to sell spring clothes while we are still in winter. They want to get buyers excited about warmer weather. Sadly, many fall into this trap and impulsively purchase clothing for the new spring line. They completely ignore the fact that it is still cold outdoors, and they will not be able to wear the new clothes for another two months. Of course, if they would have waited a couple of months, they could have bought the same outfits for half off.

The designer styles you want will eventually go on sale. Wait until this time to purchase outfits. Stores are constantly getting new inventory, thus they have to quickly move out the old. Check back with the store weekly. This way, you are able to swipe the clothes you want as soon as they go on sale. Another option when shopping for designer labels is browsing smaller stores that carry upscale brands. Many of these stores purchase designer brands directly from the manufacturer. The clothing may have minor defects, but they are still in good condition. Discount outlets are also a great place for buying designer brands at low prices. Many are leery about discount stores. Common fears are that the clothes are of poor quality or knockoffs. However, many discount outlets purchase overstock items from larger department stores. Thus you are getting the same quality clothes at a reduced price. Online retailers are also an option when looking for inexpensive designer brands. Some stores sell high end designer brands greatly discounted.

Vintage and thrift stores are great for locating designer clothes and fashions. I was never a thrift store fan because the smell turned me off. However, a friend of mine has successfully located many high end designer clothes at second hand shops. The clothes were in great condition, and some even had the price tag intact. We visited a thrift store together and I was able to make out pretty good. I did not find any designer clothes, but I did purchase two Coach bag's in perfect condition. That was enough to convince me that second hand stores are a great pick.