Money-Saving Strategies for Shopping Luxury Goods

How to Buy Luxury Items Online for Less?

Whether it's a must-have handbag, eye-catching timepiece, stylish sunglasses or designer jeans, a luxury item has undeniable panache. No matter what you lust for, there's usually a way to get it for less. Just be sure to boycott knock-offs, because nothing's more gauche than fake. Now check out our tips for scoring luxury items for less online and shop til your fingers cramp!

- Going Once, Going Twice, Gone! Ebay and other auction sites are still one of the best ways to find good deals on top brands. To really save big, consider gently used items. They can be much less than items listed as "new with tags" and generally any "wear" to the item will be slight and noticeable only to you. Just be sure to check out the feedback on the seller, determine shipping fees, and read the description carefully. Don't hesitate to ask questions about the item, including whether the seller takes returns in case the item doesn't live up to expectations.

- Visit Designer Discount Websites. There are online retailers that specialize in designer luxury goods, from 20% to 60% off. Websites like Bluefly.com feature high-end designers and great deals.

- Check out Major Retailers for Online Specials & Sales. Sometimes the best deals can be found at the major department store sites think NeimanMarcus.com and Bloomingdales.com where seasonal sales and special discounts can mean major savings.

- Clip Coupons. Search online for coupons related to the item or items you can't live without. Search terms include coupon, coupon codes, discount code(s), etc.

- Take a Look at the Designer's Website. If you have a specific name brand in mind, go to the company's website directly. Some designers discount goods to make way for a new season of "to-die-for's".

- Make Your Web Browser do the Shopping. Set up an email alert with your favorite web browser such as Google Alerts or Yahoo Alerts. You key in search terms and you'll receive emails to alert you when that term appears on the Internet. Ta da! It's "Prada Sale."

- Visit Shopping Search Sites. Websites like Bizrate.com and Shopzilla.com work hard to find great deals. Tell the site what you're looking for and it will canvas the web and present comparative prices.

So there are just three easy steps to shop online for luxury items like a pro.

1. Go real or go home. Remember to boycott fakes.
2. Use the tools and techniques featured above.
3. Have fun and keep shopping!

by Celia Jest 2008-04-01