Online shopping has become a safe enough arena for retail purchases that many people feel comfortable purchasing books, shoes, clothing and even expensive jewelry online.  One annoying thing about online shopping, however, is that you end up with a mailbox full of emails, notifications and newsletters. You may opt to not receive these emails, but then you also run the risk of missing out on sales, valuable coupon codes, and (gasp!) knowledge of spanking new commercial goods.

iStorez is a website that offers you all the benefits that online stores have to offer without cluttering your already full inbox.   iStorez allows you to select your favorite e-tailers’ current newsletters and deals right on the website.  You can easily go directly to the retailer’s website once you have found something you love, and it also helps you find specific items from apparel to media.  They even have deals for different personalities such as the Eco Adventuress to the Urban Fashionista.

Why are these companies so great?  They take care of the deals for you. It’s a little mall right on your desktop that fits to your likes and styles.  You save mailbox memory and real time so that the rest of your day can be free to do other, more important things in life.  Kiss bye bye to retail spam!

We are hearing it all over the news and can’t avoid it: the economy is sinking.  You have to start saying good buy to some things, and possibly some luxuries as well.  Instead of buying everything full price, look for sale items or bargains.  Look, now is not the time to pay premium prices, because that money you are spending probably could go to something better and more useful than a new handbag.  Here are some sources to still find great fashion finds without quitting cold turkey.

Loehmann’s offers a great variety of off season and current season finds with new items almost every day.  Check out the clearance items for clothes that are up to 90% off retail.  They carry designer brands that range from jackets, jeans, handbags, shoes, evening gowns and jewelry.

Sample Sales These are offered all over the country and usually you have to RSVP to get in or pay at the door.  Expect long lines and catty women.  Most places take credit cards, but have cash handy just in case.  To find local sample sales, give Top Button a try and keep your eyes and ears open for sample sales around your area.

Yoox.com This online store offers high end designer goods for a fraction of the cost.  You have to be vigilant and browse regularly to find what you want, but when you do, it’s a great treasure.

Savvy Circle If you find something online that you love, Savvy Circle will track it for you and shoot you an email when that item goes on sale.  So instead of paying full price, you will always find it on sale.  Check out our article about Savvy Circle for more info.

Ebay Sometimes it can be called EvilBay, but just be safe and cautious.  Never deal outside of ebay and always make sure items are confirmed and the seller has a good sales history.  You can find great items ranging from jewelry to furniture at a great cost.  Live.com is also offering rebates on certain items where you can get a hefty chunk of your change back if you register with them.  Craigslist is also another great option to find furniture or goods online in your local area.

Consignment Shops You can buy items at a reduced price, as long as you do not mind that the item has been gently used before.  Selling is also a great option too to make some extra cash.  Try Yoogi’s Closet or Luxury Shops for online consignment, as there is greater variety.  You can also try local consignment shops for bargains as well.

Happy smart shopping!