[Win a $250 giftcard] What are the best buys at bargain stores like Marshalls?

[One Frugal Girl]

Truth be told I usually start back in the kitchen supply section of the store and work my way up to the front. I've purchased a number of Calphalon pots and pans for less than half of the price of department stores. I also find all of our spatulas, pizza cutters, and other kitchen gadgets there.

I'm also a huge fan of the lamps Marshalls sells. One summer I replaced half of the lamps in our house with lamps from Marshalls. The lamps range in all sorts of unusual shapes and sizes and the lamp shades are often colorful and unique. On average the lamps range from $20 - $45, but I've purchased a few for as little as $13.99.

Also don't be afraid to dig through the piles of rugs. I purchased two very inexpensive rugs, with cute designs, for kids rooms.

[greenness]

For me the best buys are designer accessories - usually they come down to a price comparable to the non-designer stuff's sale price!

[mfocker22]

As a poor grad student, I absolutely LOVE the shoe-shopping at these stores! I can always find cute designer shoes for $15-$25, keeping up with those still living off their parents AND staying within my budget. I also refuse to spend a ton on trendy clutches and handbags, and the prices and selection at these stores don't disappoint.

[misskate]

I have a pair of pointy-toe pumps by Unlisted that I picked up from Marshall's for $2.00! I have been wearing them for about 4 years now because they are perfect for work or going out. Definitely my best buy ever!

[Maaka]

I needed a new wallet to go with my new purse, and my daughter suggested Marshall's. What a great idea! We found one for $8 that matched the purse perfectly. If only I had thought to look at Marshall's for the purse because they have such a great selection. I'll go there from now on, now that there's one close by.

[redsoxmaniac]

Just went to Marshall's last night. They had some great buys on a variety of things...this had a large home store section with some fantastic things. Great rugs etc. I ended up buying some wine glasses for a great price and some underwear Vera Lang on serious sale! I also picked up some candles that I needed for a vg price. I think Marshall's is having a bit of a renaissance for awhile I thought they had dropped the ball a few years back but every time that I've been in the last couple of years I have found something so deeply discounted that I picked it up either for my use or a gift.

[gt0163c]

I've found some good deals on name brand/high quality backpacks and luggage. And, in the past, I've found some reasonable deals on athletic shoes.

[Kiddio]

I never cease to be amazed at the great variety of shoes I can find at Marshalls and similar stores, and the prices are great! I'm happy to buy shirts at Target, jeans at the thrift store, etc, but good quality shoes are a must!
Best,
Amanda

www.kiddio.org
fun ideas for creative families

[EMS]

I've always been a big fan of TJMaxx. I find it less overwhelming than many of the other discount department stores out there.

[aravis]

Shoes, wardrobe basics. I got a little black dress for 16 dollars once that only had to be altered and is now a staple.