Baltimore is home to a plethora of top-notch thrift and consignment stores, as any bargain hunting fashion plate can attest. Whether you’re looking to declutter your closets or score something new-to-you to rock, we’ve got you covered for the best spots around town to both drop off and pick up.

Goodwill Fells Point
Out of several locations in the area, the Goodwill location on Broadway offers the best selection for contemporary brands like Anthropologie and Stuart Weitzman. Although the store size is smaller than others, they make up for it by carrying a diverse range of sizes. If you love the Goodwill hunt and are willing to pay a couple dollars more for quality designers and materials, then this location is worth a visit. 715 S Broadway, 410-327-2211

Value Village Thrift Store
Larger than your average thrift store, Value Village boasts two levels of organized men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing. Looking through their inventory is like taking a trip through the decades, with a selection including modern designer labels as well as vintage finds. In the heart of Highlandtown, this store is known for its tidiness and consistency. Reasonable prices mean most customers never leave empty handed. 3424 Eastern Ave., 410-327-5300

Uptown Cheapskate Timonium
For those who like to get an idea of what’s in store before stopping by, Uptown Cheapskate keeps its customers in the loop by regularly posting new finds on their Facebook and Instagram pages. The store maintains a rotating stock of designer brands like Tory Burch, Michael Kors, and Kate Spade, with a variety of new and vintage pieces. This is the spot for young adults looking for a large selection of secondhand designer apparel and accessories. 2143A York Rd., 410-560-5890

Redeux Consignment
Redeux Consignment is a mecca for those looking to buy quality or designer merchandise for a fraction of the retail cost. Everything you’ll find in this Roland Park consignment store is a top-tier brand and in suitable condition for resale. For up-to-date fashion, browse their large selection of sizes in products ranging from women’s clothing and shoes to bags and accessories. 5002 Lawndale Ave., 410-323-2140

The Wise Penny
Run by the Junior League of Baltimore, The Wise Penny on York Road is a thrift store with a mission. Proceeds from sales of the shop’s new and gently used merchandise go towards funding the Junior League’s charitable projects in the community. But that’s not the only thing to love about The Wise Penny—its already deeply discounted designer and household items go on even further sale multiple times throughout the year. 5902 York Rd., 410-435-3244

A Day N June
What began as a pop-up vintage shop is now a full-time thrift store on Pulaski Street. A Day N June has used and vintage clothing sourced from trade shows in L.A., New York, and other thrift stores across the country—all handpicked by owner Lindsey Brown. Brown’s favorite vintage clothes and accessories are far from ordinary, incorporating street style elements and vibrant colors. 208 S Pulaski St., 443-314-8995

Second Chance
If you find yourself mid-home décor project and looking for something unique to bring your space to life, Second Chance should be your go-to. Established as a nonprofit to preserve the Baltimore region’s architectural heritage, Second Chance focuses its efforts towards reclaiming materials for public use. In the massive warehouse near M&T Bank Stadium, you will find antiques, lighting fixtures, building supplies, indoor and outdoor furniture and more, as far as the eye can see. 1700 Ridgely St., 410-385-1700

Tried But True
Mothers and moms-to-be looking to avoid spending a fortune on maternity wear swear by the children’s and maternity selection at Tried But True in Cockeysville. In the business for more than 30 years, the resale boutique has a wide range of kid-focused wares including strollers, baby furniture, toys, and infant- to toddler-size clothing. Everything is in good condition and available for a reasonable price and can be consigned when kids inevitably outgrow their pieces. 10914 York Rd., 410-666-9265

Vogue Revisited
Vogue Revisited in Roland Park boasts an array of quality name-brand inventory for all sizes, with new apparel arriving daily. Their curated selection is super-organized, making it easy to find everything from high-end designer boots to top-of-the-line bags, all resold at a below-retail price. They also accept new or gently worn items like clothing, jewelry, or shoes that are on-trend and in good condition for consignment. 4002 Roland Ave., 410-235-4140

 

On Model: Ladakh Lexie Duffle Coat in camel ($148) at South Moon Under. Do everything in Love gloves in ivory ($21) at South Moon Under. Dolce Vita Joust shoe in black suede ($99.95) at South Moon Under. Rich Fern Scarf ($28) at Sassanova. 

MODEL: JAMIE EDELEN.

aMuse Toys
2576 Quarry Lake Dr., 410-415-0000. Be careful letting the kids hear about this one. Amuse Toys picks a day in April (usually around the second or third week) to clear out its warehouse. This sale features discounts from 10 to 95 percent off inventory, including new merchandise and some floor models of toys, depending on what’s in store. (Only at its Quarry Lake location.)

A Style Studio
25 Hooks Ln., Pikesville, 410-484-1115. Usually from Thanksgiving weekend through the end of the first week in December (this year, November 29 through December 14), the women’s clothing, accessory and cosmetic boutique, A Style Studio hosts its anniversary sale. During this time, you’ll find up to 20 percent off all lines carried in the store like LOLO, Anna Beck, and DL1961.

Brightside Boutique
Two locations, including 732 S. Broadway, 410-522-1337. This is the sale that keeps on giving. Every time you shop at the fashion-forward Brightside Boutique, the staff puts a coupon in your bag for 15 percent off your next purchase. If you follow the store on Instagram you get fashion inspiration and the scoop on when to stop by for spontaneous “just-because” sales of up to 10 percent off the entire store. The half-off sales rack at the end of each season isn’t bad, either.

The Corduroy Button
Two locations, including 1625 Thames St., 410-276-5437. The annual warehouse sale at the children’s clothing and accessory shop Corduroy Button is huge if you’re shopping for a little one. In July, the weekend following the Fourth, it offers anywhere from 50 to 90 percent off of merchandise. Included in this can be floor models for larger pieces like high chairs, as well as many of the basic bottles, onesies, and booties that babies need. The sale takes place at the store’s warehouse on 1400 Aliceanna Street.

J. Brown Jewelers
1802 Reisterstown Rd., Pikesville, 410-484-3388. A way to beat the end-of-summer blues——how about 35 to 50 percent off select fashion watches and jewelry at J. Brown Jewelers in mid-November? Additionally, select models by Cartier, Breitling, and Rolex are discounted.

J.S. Edwards
1809 Reisterstown Rd., Pikesville, 410-653-2266. After the holiday season ends, the go-to shop for men’s clothing and accessories (especially suits and ties), J.S. Edwards, has a sale on fall and winter merchandise——just in case you need to fill in any gaps on your holiday wish list. Items are marked down between 40 and 60 percent off in the second week of January.

Lori K
10411 Stevenson Rd., Stevenson, 410-580-0081. Stylish women’s boutique Lori K loves sales. Early in December, designer markdowns get up to an additional 40 to 70 percent off. At the end of February, get up to 80 percent off of fall and winter merchandise. May bows out with up to 70 percent off of spring items. The second week in June offers up to 80 percent off spring/summer clothes. Plus, the store’s anniversary sale is the first week in August, celebrated with 20 percent off storewide.

Lululemon Athletica
Several locations, including 820 Aliceanna St., 410-528-5485. Known for comfy workout clothes, Lululemon Athletica does a huge markdown of items just once a year. Boxing Day (also known as the day after Christmas) is the best time to stock up on yoga clothes and running gear. Just for this day, the store will add additional sale items to any clearance it currently has in stock.

Ma Petite Shoe
832 W. 36th St., 410-235-3442. To help keep your tootsies looking attractive all summer, Ma Petite Shoe has a sale for Bastille Day, July 14. Most styles of regularly priced shoes, including those Fly London and Miz Mooz pairs you’ve been eyeing, will be marked down from 10 to 50 percent off to help make room for incoming fall styles.

Matava Shoes
2360 W. Joppa Rd., Lutherville, 410-583-5582. The women’s shoe store known for its great selection of high-quality kicks celebrates Imelda Marcos and her collection of more than 2,000 pairs of shoes. The store hosts a sale around her birthday (July 2). During this time, you will receive 20 percent off the first pair, 30 percent off the second, 50 percent off the third, and 60 percent off the fourth (and most expensive).

The Pleasure of Your Company
2360 W. Joppa Rd., Lutherville, 410-821-6369. The stationery and gift shop The Pleasure of Your Company has wedding invite discounts from the third day of the year until March 1. These discounts include a special percentage off your order and sometimes things like free additional invites.

Poppy and Stella
Two locations, including 728 S. Broadway, 410-522-1970. Shoes are a weakness, and we are powerless against shoes on sale. Poppy and Stella makes it easier to get a little more bang for your buck (or sandal or boot), with 15 to 60 percent off every brand in the store at the end of each season——January (fall) and August (spring).

REI
Several locations, including 63 W. Aylesbury Rd., Timonium, 410-252-5920. A membership at the outdoor retailer, REI is great all year long because you receive e-mail notification of any spontaneous sales happening. Also, as a member, a portion of the co-op’s profits goes back to you every March, generally around 10 percent of what you purchased at full price.

South Moon Under
Several locations, including 815 Aliceanna St., 410-685-7820. Beginning a few days into October and ending about a week before Halloween, trendy men’s and women’s clothing and accessory shop South Moon Under offers a denim discount. Both men’s and women’s denim is marked down up to 20 percent off. This applies to regularly priced merchandise by J Brand, Citizens of Humanity, BLANKNYC, Hudson, and others.

Spa in the Valley
118 Shawan Rd., Cockeysville, 410-771-0200. Stop into Spa in the Valley near the end of each year when the winter has left you with uncontrollable frizz. In the last two weeks of December, you can snag items by Aveda, OPI, Wella, Bumble and Bumble, and Dermalogica at up to 40 percent off. This is the only time of year the spa does a sale this big.

Su Casa
Several locations, including 901 S. Bond St., 410-522-7010. The semiannual warehouse sale at Su Casa is a big deal for furniture lovers because floor samples and overstock are up for grabs at below-cost discounts, ranging from 40 to 70 percent off. The next one is coming up just around the corner on the weekend after January 1, and there’s another scheduled for the weekend after the Fourth of July.

Ten Thousand Villages
1621 Thames St., 410-342-5568. Memorial and Labor Day weekends are the times to shop at Ten Thousand Villages. The fair-trade retailer offers 50 to 75 percent off of damaged and repaired items, which can be as small as a scratch. Additionally, spring and fall overstock sales can be up to 50 to 75 percent off.

Treasure House Accessories
9163 Reisterstown Rd., Owings Mills, 410-363-4110. The Treasure House Accessories anniversary sale is the perfect time to stop in for some last-minute holiday gifts. It takes place in mid-November, typically offering 20 percent off everything in the store, with few exceptions. (Sorry, Pandora bracelets are not included.) Because of this sale’s timing, all on-trend fall pieces will be in store, including holiday gift options.

Urban Chic
801 Aliceanna St., 410-685-1601. Pieces that are going to be in heavy rotation in your wardrobe are always worth stocking up on. Denim is surely in that category and Urban Chic has a sale of up to 30 percent off jeans from brands like Citizens of Humanity, J Brand, and AG Jeans in mid-September. Bonus: This sale typically includes a free gift with purchase of denim.

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Neighborhood Sales

Small Business Saturday
Nationwide, small businesses offer discounts up to 25 percent off merchandise in appreciation of the folks who keep shopping the day after Black Friday (this year on Saturday, November 30).

First Fridays in Hampden
The first Friday of every month, some Hampden retailers offer discounts of up to 20 percent off merchandise (along with refreshments and snacks) and keep longer hours.

Fells Point Ladies’ Night Out
Get your girls to Fells Point on the third Thursday of every month, from 5-9 p.m., for a shop crawl full of discounts at participating shops.

The Shops at Kenilworth Ladies’ Night Out
The Shops at Kenilworth hosts an indoor shop crawl from 6-9 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month, with participating retailers offering 10 percent off.

The Village of Cross Keys Sidewalk Sale
The Village of Cross Keys Sidewalk Sale happens on Fathers’ Day weekend, running from Thursday through Sunday, with additional sale items at participating merchants.

Green Spring Station Sidewalk Sale
The high-end shopping center has its sidewalk sale twice a year on a weekend in January and July where you can score up to 75 percent off merchandise.

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How to Haggle

What is the protocol when looking for a deal?

“I think it’s totally appropriate to ask if any promotions are running. As for bargaining, use the following guideline: Would I feel comfortable asking this question or making an ‘offer’ at Nordstrom? If the answer is ‘No,’ don’t do it in a boutique either.” —Lisa Schatz, owner, Cupcake

“It doesn’t hurt to ask. Usually I would advise not to ask about newer merchandise. The more you shop with us, the more we realize and appreciate it and are willing to give discounts. We want to encourage frequent local shopping.” —Bree McNerney, store manager, Handbags in the City

“We try to take care of our loyal customers by having sales, events, and promotions regularly. Following us on Facebook and Instagram is also a great way to find out about our deals.” —Lauren Bell, store manager, Babe

“Typically your returning customers will already know your special promos, events, and holiday specials, [but] if they ask, there’s no harm.” —Heidi Slacum, owner, Fresh! Boutique

Katie DeStefano

Interior designer and owner of Curiosity.

Katie DeStefano knew early on what her calling in life would be. “In sixth grade, I told my mom that I was going to be an interior designer, and I never looked back,” she says. DeStefano also runs a home-goods store, Curiosity, which she recently relocated, along with her design studio, from Federal Hill to Harbor East. With a client roster that includes Dr. Oanh Lauring of Lauring Dermatology and Bronwyn LeGette of Hyperspace, she says finding cheap things isn’t the goal, but great deals are never unwelcome. “Finding a great deal on one thing will give you a little more to spend on something you really want,” she points out. “You can fool the eye by pairing a splurge with a steal. It’s the same idea as wearing a Gap shirt with Tory Burch heels.”

Left, clockwise from top: Stay Calm canvas painting ($1,500) by Catherine O’Connell. Geometric throw ($150) at Curiosity. Sofa ($1,525) at Su Casa. Sweater pillow ($34.99) at Target. Dotted yellow pillow ($148) at Curiosity. Yellow pillow ($16.99) and purple square pillow ($12.48) at Target. Accent tables ($79.99/each) at Target. Silver bug ($32) at Curiosity. Purple vase ($7.48) at Target. Large ($12.99) and small ($9.99) jellyfish paperweights and yellow and green paperweight ($5.99) at Home Goods. Chevron rug ($322) at Su Casa. Stanley Furniture end table ($695) at Dream House Studios. Carpet tiles courtesy of FLOR.com. Additional items listed on page 165. Items not listed are stylist’s own.

Mellow Yellow
“Yellow is one of my favorite colors. The lines of this piece are so simple and classic, you really can’t go wrong.”
Vase is stylist’s own.

Chemistry Lesson
“These are quirky and fun, the perfect conversation piece. You will surely get some people asking what they are.”
Small ($64) and large ($82) molecule sculptures at Curiosity.

Throwing Shade
“Green and gold is a winning combination, and the textured shade is the icing on top. Budget tip: If I buy an inexpensive lamp base, splurge on the lampshade. It will transform the lamp.”
Green and gold table lamp ($495) at Curiosity.

Pillow Talk
“I mixed a slew of different pillows from Target with one designer pillow.”
Red square Threshold pillow ($24.99) at Target.

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The Drawing Board

Exploring DeStefano’s design process.

The Color Palette

” Sketching out my ideas helps when coming up with a list of items to find.”

← None of the pillows actually match with creates a more casual look.

Color
“Dark walls are on trend right now, so I picked a deep color that still had life to it.”

Inspiration
“This painting has an amazing scale and has the most delicious layers, colors, and textures.”

Added Details
“I always add a creature sculpture to all my rooms. They’re cute!”

Flower Choice
“Hydrangeas are the easiest flowers to arrange, but potted orchids or another rooted plant will
last a bit longer.”

9th Life
833 W. 36th St., 410-534-9999.
Great for: Funky finds for you or a friend.
Details: This row-house boutique on The Avenue has a mix of vintage, new apparel, and reworked vintage with pieces by local artists. The curated racks of affordable vintage goods for girls and guys are hip and funky, yet totally wearable. Unique accessories and home décor make this a good spot for gifts, too.
Editor’s Pick: A floral print ’70s pleated dress, $23.

B’more Betty
1316 Light St., 443-869-6379.
Great for: Saving on designer pieces.
Details: When you walk into this classy Federal Hill boutique with its upscale vibe, it simply doesn’t feel like you’re in a resale shop. Here you’ll find Louboutins, Gucci bags, and a wall of designer jeans. Every item is handpicked by the store’s owner and looks brand new.
Editor’s Pick: Like-new Tory Burch Bryce clogs with a wooden sole and burnt-orange leather upper, $75.

Debois Textiles, Inc.
1835 Washington Blvd., 410-837-8081.
Great for: Vintage finds and super-cheap bargains.
Details: Just south of Pigtown, this textile warehouse isn’t where you’d expect to find a vintage treasure trove. Debois’s Boulevard Boutique is a hidden gem with quality finds from the ’60s to the ’80s for men and women of all sizes. And thrifty shoppers can score pieces for well under $10 by digging through boxes in the warehouse.
Editor’s Pick: A green and white Lilly Pulitzer sundress, circa 1960, $50.

Fashion Attic
1926 Fleet St., 410-276-0817.
Great for: Stocking up on basics.
Details: This small store is packed with racks of women’s clothing, shoes, accessories, and jewelry. With labels ranging from Forever XXI to Marc Jacobs, you’ll find something special if you enjoy the hunt.
Editor’s Pick: Black and brown woven-leather Cole Haan loafers, $38.

Hunting Ground
3649 Falls Road, 410-243-0789.
Great for: Scoring wearable vintage finds.
Details: In an old church just off The Avenue, this spacious boutique is one of the few offering vintage and small-label styles for men and women. You’ll find graphic tees, button-downs, and flannel for him and chunky sweaters, airy ’90s dresses, and well-styled jeans for her. Accessories, jewelry, and local art round out the mix.
Editor’s Pick: A pair of vintage cognac leather Sebago Campsides, $15.

Killer Trash
602 S. Broadway, 410-675-2449.
Great for: Adding whimsy to your wardrobe.
Details: Across from the Broadway Market, this long, narrow shop is stuffed to the brim with vintage and costume clothing. Gatsby-esque flapper dresses hang from the walls, racks of large-collar polyester button-downs look dance-floor ready, and sequined dresses sparkle on the racks. Amid the costume wear, you’ll also find quality vintage pieces.
Editor’s Pick: A Mad Men-style metallic brocade shift dress with beaded collar, $40.

La Chic Boutique
5614 Newbury St., 443-869-2247.
Great for: A timeless mink fur coat, either vintage or a newer coat made with female pelts for a lighter, slimmer silhouette.
Details: The Mt. Washington staple carries the fashions of Tory Burch, Roberto Cavalli, and high-end Parisian boutiques, all barely worn or with tags still intact. Clients can create a “wish list” and be notified when a certain designer or style hits the racks. Additionally, owner Mary Anne Barker redesigns furniture and creates custom wreaths and ornaments for clients.
Editor’s Pick: Travel in style with a vintage Louis Vuitton suitcase, $3,000.

Little Lamb Consignments
5002 Lawndale Ave., 410-433-9086.
Great for: Gently used baby and children’s clothing from designers such as Polo Ralph Lauren and Lilly Pulitzer.
Details: This one-stop shop will equip a mother with everything she needs to clothe her child, from everyday wear to special-occasion outfits to school uniforms and Halloween costumes. While browsing the racks, you can also find consigned books, strollers, changing tables, and more.
Editor’s Pick: A cozy green Mini Boden coat with toggle clasps and a hood, $75.

Posh Retro
poshretro.com.
Great for: Modern-style vintage finds for work or going out.
Details: Based in Federal Hill, this vintage boutique sells online at poshretro.com. From a silk ’90s LBD for date night to skirts and blouses for the office, these brand-name items won’t break the bank.
Editor’s Pick: Mode Specialé brand brown-leather, blazer-style jacket, $35.

Re Deux
5002 Lawndale Ave., 410-323-2140.
Great for: Preppy, tailored apparel and accessories that would earn a front-row seat at Fashion Week.
Details: The Roland Park store gives runway styles a second life with designers such as Prada, Fendi, and Christian Louboutin. Merchandise is carefully selected to provide a more comfortable shopping experience, rather than searching through an enormous quantity of clothing.
Editor’s Pick: Hermès Grand Apparat scarf, $200.

Ruth’s Closet
9131 Reisterstown Rd., Owings Mills, 410-581-9780.
Great for: Top-tier designer fashions that will make you feel good about your shopaholic tendencies.
Details: Staffed mainly by volunteers, Ruth’s Closet donates all proceeds to House of Ruth Maryland, which aids victims of intimate-partner violence. Pay it forward by purchasing high-end items, including Stuart Weitzman, Escada, and Jimmy Choo, at a bargain price.
Editor’s Pick: A true classic——a vintage black quilted-leather Chanel handbag——will never go out of style, $495.

Ten Car Pile Up
511 York Rd., Towson, 410-832-5246.
Great for: Vintage pieces deconstructed and redesigned for the creatively stylish.
Details: Founder Shane Gullivan accepts consigned vintage pieces and gives them a facelift with the help of his sewing machine, resulting in one-of-a-kind, handcrafted clothing.
Editor’s Pick: A Gatsby-themed ensemble with a white tuxedo jacket and vintage boater hat (prices vary).

Uptown Cheapskate
Several locations, including 1830 York Rd., Timonium, 410-560-5890.
Great for: Any variety of denim, with a huge selection including American Eagle, Gap, and premium labels like Seven for Mankind and Citizens of Humanity.
Details: Emily Schramm and Nancy Kline, the mother-daughter team behind the Timonium, Rockville, and Salisbury Uptown Cheapskate locations, carry everything from
J. Crew to H&M. Although it caters largely to teens and young women, the store also boasts an impressive men’s collection.
Editor’s Pick: A Michael Kors hobo bag in gunmetal with silver chain details, $99.

Wear It’s At
49 Main St., Reisterstown, 410-526-2003.
Great for: Boutique-worthy fashion at a bargain price, as well as personal styling assistance from owner Stephanie Torrible and her knowledgeable staff.
Details: The consignment store in historic Reisterstown carries high-end brands ranging from AllSaints to Tory Burch to Christian Dior and Givenchy, providing a budget-friendly selection of on-trend designer apparel, shoes, and accessories. Items that don’t make the racks are donated to Suited to Succeed and Cinderella’s Closet.
Editor’s Pick: The Christian Dior asymmetrical cheetah print dress, $475.

Vogue Revisited
4002 Roland Ave., 410-235-4140.
Great for: Classing up your work wardrobe.
Details: The first room of designer goods——think Chanel bags, J Brand jeans, Calvin Klein suits——leads to three more meticulously organized rooms with casual and formal clothes, accessories, and shoes. Don’t forget to check the dates on the tags——prices go down the longer an item’s around and new stock arrives daily.
Editor’s Pick: A 3.1 Phillip Lim khaki trench with yellow-trim buttons.

The Zone
813 N. Charles St., 410-539-2817.
Great for: Costume and quirky thrift shopping.
Details: Just north of the Washington Monument, above a barbershop, this store is packed floor-to-ceiling with men’s and women’s fashions. While you won’t find designer brands here, you will find plenty of funky pieces——we’re talking sequined fanny packs, ’80s prom dresses, and neon wigs.
Editor’s Pick: A perfectly worn-in, black-leather biker jacket, $60.

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What I Will Buy

Mary Anne Barker, owner of La Chic Boutique in Mt. Washington, gives her tips for consignors.

Be Seasonable.
Seasonableness is generally my rule of thumb for buying. However, I always take [a few select] items that are “all season,” as people who vacation [in the winter] to the Islands cannot find summer items in high-end department stores.

Stay On-Trend.
Stick with either today’s fashions (within the last year) or truly vintage (before the 1970s).

Tags Equal Value.
I tell every consignor to bring in their items with the original tags——people like to purchase an item with the original tag on it. As a shop owner, it also saves us time researching the original price of the item in order to put a “good selling” price on it.

Prep Your Clothes.
Remember these rules to maximize your chance of success:
• Always clean • Always on hangers
• Barely worn • Preferably with original tags • No tears
• No missing buttons • No damages

Think Consignment.
If you were bored with your items, you could sell it at a consignment shop instead of dumping it somewhere else. The idea of “a person’s junk is another person’s gift” is very true.

Diana Kim, freelance makeup artist for NBC News Channel and China Central Television, is the ultimate bargain shopper.

“I never pay full price for anything,” says Kim. “I wait for the e-mails saying an extra 30 percent off or offering discounts on full-priced items, especially Neiman Marcus around special holidays. “Once items go on sale, I go in for the kill.”

WEEKEND PREPSTER

Everyone should have a turtleneck, just in case you don’t want to wear a scarf. I wear shearling boots all through the winter; they are warm, comfortable, and soft on your feet. I want them to look classy and not abuse their look, avoiding ones that are slipper-like. The braid is how I wear my hair with hats. Keep the braid to one side—it should be messy, which makes it looks stylish.

Baseball cap ($43.50) at J. Crew. Theory turtleneck sweater ($79.10) at Neiman Marcus Last Call. Merona stretch overalls ($24.99) at Target. Shearling boots ($34.99) at Marshalls.

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STYLISH PROFESSIONAL

The leather-collared shirt can be worn out, or worn to work by putting a cami underneath and adding a black blazer. Sometimes I may be going out after work, so I can take my jacket off, and it becomes more evening. The block heel is more comfortable, which means you can go out dancing after. The bun is like a go-to hairdo—stylish, easy to do, effortless, and professional.

Leather-collared blouse ($24.99) at Marshalls. Swing jacket ($69.95) at H&M. Marni Mary Jane ($83) at Neiman Marcus Last Call. Satchel ($29.95) at H&M. Nude fishnet ($3.99) at Marshalls.

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BOHO CHIC

The dress is very versatile. I belt it when I want a dressier look or, for lunch with my girlfriends, I would just let it flow with my knee boots. Nude fishnets are always in—I’ve been wearing them for about 20 years now. They look sexy and fashionable. They make your legs look tan and aren’t as uptight as nude nylons.

Silk floral dress ($10) at Fashion Attic. Crystal stretch bracelet ($17.49) at J. Crew. Brown leather belt ($7) at Killer Trash. See page 223 for Where to Buy. All items not listed are stylist’s own.

The Company Store at Saks Distribution Center
500 Hickory Dr., Aberdeen, 410-297-5200.
Great for: The DIY maven ready for a road trip.
Details: A discerning eye is key for sifting through the revolving selection of designer gear for men and women. Many of the items are slightly worn samples or imperfect garments pulled directly from the Saks Fifth Avenue sales floors. New arrivals are delivered daily, but the early bird gets the worm, as most of the treasures are gone by mid-morning. If you’re willing to wait in line, the third Tuesday in March, July, and November are when the biggest deliveries arrive. Also note that hours are limited: Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Editor’s Pick: Opening Ceremony glitter ankle boot, $79.99.

DSW
Several locations, including 3501 Boston St., 410-246-4867.
Great for: Sole-searching shoe lovers.
Details: Shop by style to find kicks for every function——from work-outs to cocktail hour to errand running. Brands include Nike, Clarks, Nine West, Coach, and Steve Madden. Clearance racks house one-off styles at an additional 30 to 80 percent off discount.
Editor’s Pick: Ralph Lauren riding boots, $149.95.

H&M
Several locations, including 301 Light St., #1575, 410-685-5780.
Great for: Trendsetters looking for straight-from-the-runway inspired pieces.
Details: The fast-fashion mega-retailer of clothing and accessories for men, women, and children offers stylish items perfect for mixing with basics already in your closet. While quantity over quality may be the general rule of thumb here, you can’t beat the low price points or the chance to nab an item from one of the designer collaboration collections.
Editor’s Pick: Women’s honeycomb knit sweater, $19.95.

IKEA
8352 Honeygo Blvd., White Marsh, 410-931-5400.
Great for: Outfitting the home of a newlywed couple or college dorm room.
Details: The Swedish powerhouse offers everything for the home: décor, kitchenware, furniture, and linens. Stock up on sleek contemporary designs in a multitude of finishes and color palettes——perfect for mixing and matching. IKEA FAMILY cardholders benefit from additional product discounts, 90-day price adjustment protection, and discounted admission to the Baltimore National Aquarium and Port Discovery.
Editor’s Pick: Tickar graphic stripe 12- inch dinner plates, $4.99/each.

Loehmann’s
160 W. Ridgely Rd., Timonium, 410-252-7177.
Great for: The thrill of the hunt for designer labels from seasons past.
Details: Heavy in women’s apparel, browse the “Backroom” racks for high-end contemporary labels like Elizabeth & James, Helmut Lang, and Theory. Beloved accessories like Delman ballet flats and Marc by Marc Jacob satchels are occasional finds. Insider Gold Club members receive an extra 10 percent off everything and additional discount coupons throughout the year during milestones like birthdays and holidays.
Editor’s Pick: Elizabeth & James navy blazer with rabbit fur collar, $219.99.

Marshalls
Several locations, including 1238 Putty Hill Ave., Towson, 410-825-0350.
Great for: Thrifty shoppers with an eye for quality.
Details: Sifting through racks, you’ll find more mainstream labels like Polo Ralph Lauren, DKNY, Michael Kors, and Elie Tahari. Categories range from clothing and accessories to luggage and home goods.
Editor’s Pick: Michael Kors men’s leather bomber jacket, $149.99.

Nordstrom Rack
Several locations, including 700 Fairmount Ave, Towson, 410-296-2111.
Great for: Brand devotees willing to give up service for savings.
Details: While some merchandise is designed and sold specifically for the discounter, clearance racks are ripe with merchandise from the full-line store, with brands like Tory Burch, Milly, Cole Haan, and Joe’s Jeans. Deliveries arrive five to six days a week, so the merchandise is always changing. Visit on the last Sunday and Monday of each month to browse through additional markdowns in the women’s department “Clear the Rack” merchandise.
Editor’s Pick: Cole Haan men’s suede lace-up loafer, $98.90.

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Outlet Stores

Sears Outlet
A nick or scratch is a small price to pay for a great deal on big-ticket home appliances—all are either refurbished or taken directly from showroom floors.
Several locations, including, 8200 Belair Rd., Nottingham, 410-882-1081.

Under Armour Factory House
Baltimore’s beloved athletic-apparel brand offers its awesome heat and cold gear, athletic shoes, and accessories for men and women at a discount.
6611-A Cabot Dr., Curtis Bay, 410-255-2468.

Overstock
A no-frills warehouse setting offering furniture salvaged from hotels and office buildings at a steep discount. Think bedding, sofas, and dinettes.
2811 Sisson St., 410-235-2000.

Arundel Mills Mall
Over 1 million square feet of shopping. Highlights include
Off 5th, Neiman Marcus Last Call, and Coach.
7000 Arundel Mills Cir., Hanover, 410-540-5110.

Hagerstown Premium Outlets
An open-air collection of outlet and factory stores in every category, anchored by Restoration Hardware, Kate Spade, and
Calvin Klein.
495 Prime Outlets Blvd., Hagerstown, 310-790-0300.