Glam Slam: Shopping For Free!

We all love a good sale and we all know about shopping our closet. But let’s not overlook another option — shopping other people’s closets. Particularly, those of our family members!

Hand-me-downs are a bargain lover’s best friend! “There’s no better way to save money than to not spend it,” Says Shauna Miller, stylist, blogger and author of the new style book “Penny Chic: How to Look Stylish on a Real Girl’s Budget.”

Shauna dedicated an entire chapter of the book to “Shopping for Free,” (Shauna’s mom even took all the photos in the book!) and she says that family is a great place to look for stylish treasures.

Start with the closet of the family member who has the “most eclectic things.”

What: Quirky Costume Jewelry
Where: Mom, Grandma, Aunt

What: Old Or Broken Metal Watches
Where: Grandpa, Dad, Uncle

What: Flannel Or Solid White Button-Down Shirts
Where: Brother, Dad, Boyfriend

What: Power Suit Blazers
Where: Mom, Dad, Aunt, Uncle

What: Printed Scarves
Where: Grandma, Mom, Aunt

What: Small Handbags And Totes
Where: Grandma, Mom, Aunt

(Image from ‘Penny Chic: How to Look Stylish on a Real Girl’s Budget)

Establish The Terms: Once you spot the gold you’re after, make sure it’s an appropriate thing to make a fuss over, “aka” no fine jewelry. If you’re lucky, your family member might just give you the items free and clear, but it’s safer to assume you’re borrowing unless the offer is on the table. Lending a hand in a little pre-hunting closet organization will definitely increase your chances so it pays to give back!

Think Like a Stylist: Now you have some truly unique pieces to work into your closet. Open your mind and consider styling the item in an entirely new and different way. For instance, mom’s over-the-top costume jewelry from the 80s could just as well be your statement necklace over a basic white tee, while your brother’s flannel and dad’s suit jacket might accomplish that oversized “boyfriend” look you were going for.

Thanks Shauna! Her book “Penny Chic: How to Look Stylish on a Real Girl’s Budget” is out September 2.

— Ryan Patterson